KEARSTIN CANTRELL | Opinions Editor

My mom spanked me once as a child.

Not because I was an angel child sent from the heavens. Oh no. Not by a long shot.

She only had to spank me once because after that all it took for me to do what my mother asked was a simple question.

“Do you want a spanking?”

Obviously not, mom. But thanks for asking.

Over recent years, spanking has gained a rather negative connotation.

People (and the internet) will give you hundreds of different reasons to not spank your children. Some will even say that physical correction in any capacity is child abuse.

I’m here to tell you that there is a time, place and correct administration for physical punishment.

In an article with Time magazine, clinical psychologist Jared Pingleton shared that there are some situations where physical discipline like spanking can be extremely useful in teaching a child right and wrong.

For example, instances of willful disobedience or defiance of authority.

Dr. Pingleton is also aware that while spanking is not very popular in today’s society, it is helpful for children.

“Many parents today view themselves primarily as their child’s friend and recoil at the idea of administering discipline,” he said. “Children, though, desperately need their parents’ love and affirmation as well as their authoritative guidance and correction. Disciplining our sons and daughters is part of the tough work of parenting, but it will pay big dividends in the long run.”

I know that spanking isn’t for every parent. But let’s not jump to the conclusion that it isn’t right for ANY parent.

[perfectpullquote align=”left” cite=”” link=”” color=”” class=”” size=””]Children need discipline to become productive and positive members of society.[/perfectpullquote]

Children need discipline to become productive and positive members of society.

That being said, spanking isn’t the only form of discipline to consider. However, not disciplining children isn’t an option to consider.

I know what you’re thinking.

“Kearstin, I’m in college. I’m not trying to be a parent right now.”

I know you’re not. But you might eventually. And I personally don’t want my own future children to grow up alongside spoiled, disobedient or straight-up jerky children because you didn’t take the time to think about it.

So please, if you plan on having kids, figure out how you’re going to discipline them.