Spanking Outlawed?

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             Delaware is the first state in the nation to pass “spanking ban.” It is a move that has re-kindled debate over punishments and the definition of child abuse. According to Yahoo! News, the state’s governor passed the controversial bill earlier this month, criminalizing the act of recklessly or intentionally causing physical pain on a child. The law contends that causing such physical pain or injury “through an act of abuse and/or neglect” is considered third degree child abuse, a class A misdemeanor.

            The debate over spanking is nothing new. For decades and even longer parents and communities have discussed and even fought over how to best punish children and how involved legislators should be in family matters. However, according to the Yahoo! article, state Attorney General Beau Biden is adamant that spanking isn’t the target of the law. He says the law will not interfere with a parent’s right or ability to parent as they see fit. Instead it makes it clear that if you abuse a child in any way there’s now a statue that will protect kids.

            I think there is a line between spanking and abuse. Crossing that line often results in noticeable physical injury. Fear mongers are likely responsible for dubbing this new law “the spanking ban.” I doubt the average parent will be prosecuted for giving a child a swack on the behind. However, when an adult gets carried away and does cause injury it will be clear that a law has been broken and justice will be served. In my mind, protecting those who cannot protect themselves is more important than the right to decide how you want to teach your child a lesson.