Parental physical discipline in Singapore: Childhood experiences and future behavioral intentions

Previous research has focused on quantifying the prevalence or frequency of physical discipline, with limited attention given to how it is experienced. This study has broadened our understanding by assessing detailed experiences and future behavioral intentions of children who have been physically disciplined in a culture where this practice is normalized. Young adults (N = 449) in Singapore reported on their childhood experiences of parental physical discipline, including its prevalence, frequency, and nature of experiences such as physical and emotional aftermath. Further, they reported on their future intention to use physical discipline and their (dis)approval of its ban. Overall, 88% experienced at least one occurrence of physical discipline during their childhood. Inconsistent with prior research suggesting that physical discipline is commonly administered in a controlled manner in cultures where it is normative, the majority of participants who experienced physical discipline (89%) recalled some instances of their parents not being in control of their emotions. Moreover, 63% indicated at least one injury after physical discipline, and negative emotions (e.g., feeling fearful of parents) were common among those who experienced physical discipline. Despite the acknowledgement of the physical and emotional harm of physical discipline, the majority of young adults (71%) did not support a physical discipline ban in Singapore, reflecting deeply ingrained cultural beliefs in the acceptability and effectiveness of physical discipline as a disciplinary practice. The findings contribute to the comprehensive understanding of the nature of physical discipline and highlight the need for the promotion of alternative disciplinary methods.