by Kelly Howe

Created on: January 28, 2007   Last Updated: November 16, 2010

There is a fine line between discipline and child abuse. Or is there?

In the world today, statistics show that the number of child abuse cases that are being reported is rising at an alarming rate. Many people abuse their children under the guise of discipline. This is not acceptable in any way.

When you think of discipline, what comes to mind? A spank on the bottom? A time out in the corner? There are many different methods of discipline. The one thing that is certain is that disciplining your child should not leave them with marks or bruises.

Many people believe that spanking your child is an effective method of discipline. When you think about it, no matter what you say or think, you are using physical violence to control or punish your child for doing something that is (in your view) wrong.

When little Timmy slaps Sally in the playground because she will not relinquish a swing, what do you do? You march over and promptly swat Timmy on the bottom and tell him that it is bad to hit someone else to get something that you want.

What message are you sending to Timmy? It is bad to hit someone, but you just hit him for doing it! This could send confusing messages to Timmy, and ultimately, you could be perceived as a bad person by him for spanking him.

There are so many other more effective methods of disciplining children.

Children are little people, when you explain to them what they did is wrong and why it is wrong, they will understand.

Timeouts, standing in the corner, taking something they love away for a day, and even bed after dinner are all effective ways of disciplining a child without getting physical.

Bookstores shelves are lined with thousands of books contain effective methods of discipline that do not involve spanking.

In today's society, working a full time job and raising a family is an enormous responsibility. There are times when the stress can be unbearable.

Sometimes it is necessary for you to take a time out, just to catch your second wind. This has proven to be very helpful in many families.

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