Health & Parenting

Spanking Linked to Kids' Later Aggression

Learning Aggressive Attitudes

The new findings make sense to child psychologist Vincent J. Barone, PhD, an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Missouri-Kansas City School of Medicine and the director of Developmental and Behavioral Sciences South Clinic at Children's Mercy Hospital and Clinics, also in Kansas City.

"The findings in this research are consistent with what we know about violent experiences for children. Whether a violent video game or corporal punishment, children learn aggressive attitudes and act them out when they are exposed to violence," he says. "Children don't learn peaceful ways of solving conflict when they are exposed to violence."

Barone usually suggests that parents briefly describe the inappropriate behavior and then use a time-out.

Also, he suggests, "use your attention and passion to describe and praise positive behaviors such as cooperation, thoughtfulness, and respect for others."