Study designs like this are slightly better than useless. The infinite amount of uncontrollable variables including other people that could’ve been harsh to the subjects (siblings, romantic partner, babysitter, nanny, teacher, bully, coach, etc.), and the amount of parents that would honestly answer survey questions about harsh parenting make these headlines worthless. It amazes me that proposals for studies like these get approved.
Study designs like this are slightly better than useless. The infinite amount of uncontrollable variables including other people that could’ve been harsh to the subjects (siblings, romantic partner, babysitter, nanny, teacher, bully, coach, etc.), and the amount of parents that would honestly answer survey questions about harsh parenting make these headlines worthless. It amazes me that proposals for studies like these get approved.
Very helpful summary of the research, along with both reassurances and encouragement that as parents, we can always make some necessary changes.