Corporal punishment, such as spanking, causes subsequent decline in children’s cognitive abilities. This conclusion was reached by scientists from Old Dominion University in the USA. Research results published In the journal Child Abuse and Neglect.
Data from 18,170 children were used in the research. Focusing on a subgroup of approximately 12,800 participants ages 5 to 6, researchers analyzed the effects of spanking as a form of corporal punishment on three key areas of executive function: inhibitory control, cognitive flexibility, and working memory.
Inhibitory control is a cognitive process (executive function) that allows an individual to suppress impulses. It was assessed through teacher reports using a child behavior questionnaire. Cognitive and working memory were tested using specific tasks. Parents reported whether their child received corporal punishment.
Researchers found no link between spanking and problems in working memory, a limited-capacity cognitive system that allows for the temporary storage of information. However, children exposed to physical punishment showed decreased inhibitory control and cognitive flexibility. These skills are necessary to learn and regulate behavior.
Moreover, this effect occurred regardless of the child’s gender, caregiver ethnicity, or level of parental warmth. This suggests that the negative consequences of spanking are consistent across demographic groups and family contexts.
Previously AppearedIt is stated that forgetfulness in childhood may be a symptom of a rare disease.