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Corporal Punishment and Youth Externalizing Behavior in Santiago, Chile

NCJ Number
240807
Journal
Child Abuse & Neglect Volume: 36 Issue: 6 Dated: June 2012 Pages: 481-490
Author(s)
Julie Ma; Yoonsun Han; Andrew Grogan-Kaylor; Jorge Delva; Marcela Castillo
Date Published
June 2012
Length
10 pages
Annotation
This study explored the relationship between increased use of parental corporal punishment and greater levels of youth negative developmental outcomes in a sample of Chilean youth.
Abstract
Findings from the study on the relationship between parental use of corporal punishment and youth externalizing behavioral problems include the following: compared to previous studies conducted in the United States, the prevalence of corporal punishment was lower, with 20 percent of mothers and 10 percent of fathers reporting use of corporal punishment; both frequent and infrequent parental use of corporal punishment by mothers and fathers was associated with increases in youth's externalizing behaviors such as aggression; and after controlling for youth demographics and parents' use of corporal punishment, positive parenting practices were associated with decreases in youth externalizing behavior. The primary aim of this study was to explore the relationship between increased use of parental corporal punishment and greater levels of youth negative behavioral outcomes in a sample of Chilean youth. Data for the study were obtained from a sample of youth, n=919, who had participated in the Santiago Longitudinal Study. A standardized questionnaire was used to assess individual and familial characteristics that included physical and mental health, behavioral outcomes, relationship with parents, and parental control and autonomy. The data were analyzed to determine the extent to which parental control, specifically the use of corporal punishment, were associated with youths' increased levels of externalizing behaviors. The results of the study indicate that both frequent and infrequent use of corporal punishment can increase the risk of youth externalizing behavioral problems. Study limitations are discussed. Tables and references