Mental health professionals say the idea of prohibiting parents from spanking children under four makes sense. A measure that would ban the practice will be introduced in the California Legislature this week. KPBS reporter Kenny Goldberg has more.
The bill would make spanking, slapping, or kicking a child under four a misdemeanor. Violators could face up to one year in jail and a thousand dollar fine.
Opponents say the measure goes way too far. Critics say there’s nothing wrong with light spanking to teach a child a lesson.
Dr. Mark Chenven is a child psychiatrist in San Diego. He says punishments that inflict pain are a bad idea.
Chenven: Punishments, particularly is they become excessive, are problematic for self-esteem, and often backfire in terms of kids becoming angry or becoming violent themselves.
If the measure becomes law, California would be the first state to ban corporal punishment of children under four. Kenny Goldberg, KPBS News.
