Physically punishing children could lead to an increased risk of mental illness, researchers from the University of Manitoba and McMaster University in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada said in a new study.
For the study, researchers reviewed data collected during the National Epidemiological Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions between 2004 and 2005. Children who endured severe physical punishment were more likely to develop mood disorders, anxiety disorders, alcohol and drug abuse/dependence, and several personality disorders than those who were not punished physically, the data showed.
"Harsh physical punishment in the absence of child maltreatment is associated with mood disorders, anxiety disorders, substance abuse/dependence, and personality disorders in a general population sample," the report detailed.
"These findings inform the ongoing debate around the use of physical punishment and provide evidence that harsh physical punishment independent of child maltreatment is related to mental disorders."
The study can be found on the July 2 online edition of the journal Pediatrics.
by RTT Staff Writer
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