Is smacking really harmless if you grew up with it? A new Australian study reveals just how many parents still believe physical punishment is acceptable, even when it involves hitting a child with a wooden spoon or across the face.

Justin and Kylie unpack the research behind smacking, challenge the familiar "I turned out fine" argument and explain why physical punishment doesn't teach children the lessons parents hope it will. More importantly, they share a better way to handle challenging behaviour without hurting your child.

KEY POINTS

• What a new Australian study reveals about attitudes towards smacking.

• Why "I turned out fine" isn't proof that physical punishment is harmless.

• What six decades of research tell us about smacking and children's behaviour.

• The links between physical punishment, aggression and mental health struggles.

• Why smacking may achieve short-term compliance but doesn't create lasting change.

• How to use problem-solving conversations to teach better behaviour.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

"Discipline not as an opportunity to hurt our child, but an opportunity to help our child."

RESOURCES MENTIONED

• The Fallacy of the 'I Turned Out Fine' Argument The New York Times article by Justin Coulson

• Parenting books, articles and free podcast resources at happyfamilies.com.au.

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

• Notice when you're reaching for punishment out of frustration.

• Wait until everyone is calm before addressing challenging behaviour.

• Talk with your child about what went wrong and how to prevent it happening again.

• Give your child a chance to help create family rules and solutions.

• Focus on teaching the behaviour you want to see, rather than punishing the behaviour you don't.