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Parenting

What research says about raising children

Helicopter Parenting

Myth: Being very involved in your child's life is always good
Reality: Overprotective "helicopter" parenting is associated with negative outcomes[1]. Children need appropriate autonomy to develop problem-solving skills and emotional resilience.

Screen Time

Myth: All screen time is harmful for children
Reality: Screen time effects depend heavily on context and content, not just duration[2].

Spanking and Corporal Punishment

Warning: Spanking is harmful to children

Spanking is associated with multiple negative outcomes[3].

The negative associations with spanking are comparable to those with harsher physical punishment[4]. Major medical organizations recommend against corporal punishment.

{?|effective alternatives include positive reinforcement, natural consequences, time-outs, removing privileges, and explaining why behaviors are wrong - these teach without the negative associations of physical punishment}

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References

  1. Shaki O, Chhikara A, Karri S et al. (2022). Helicopter parenting, from good intentions to poor outcomes. What parents needs to know?. Journal of Family Medicine and Primary Care. [DOI]
  2. Mallawaarachchi S, Burley J, Mavilidi M et al. (2024). Early Childhood Screen Use Contexts and Cognitive and Psychosocial Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. JAMA Pediatrics. [DOI]
  3. Gershoff ET, Grogan-Kaylor A (2016). Spanking and child outcomes: Old controversies and new meta-analyses. Journal of Family Psychology. [DOI]
  4. Gershoff ET, Grogan-Kaylor A (2016). Spanking and child outcomes: Old controversies and new meta-analyses. Journal of Family Psychology. [DOI]