( CNN ) -- Parents often ask me whether spanking is really so bad . After all , they were spanked as kids and they turned out fine . Plus , it 's the only thing that will get their child to listen , they say . Much research has focused on the effects that severe child abuse can have on a person 's mental well-being . But a new study published in the July issue of the journal Pediatrics takes a look at the possible link between mental health disorders and harsh physical punishment in the absence of abuse . The findings may persuade parents not to spank at all . Researchers from Canada found that physical punishment ( such as slapping , hitting , pushing and shoving ) -- even without child neglect or physical , sexual or emotional abuse -- was linked to mood disorders , anxiety disorders , substance abuse and personality disorders . When does spanking become abuse ? While it may be true that many of today 's parents were spanked as children and are now well-adjusted , previous studies have also shown that those who were spanked are at a higher risk to be depressed ; use alcohol ; hit their spouse or own children ; and engage in violent or criminal behaviors . Physical punishment does n't help , it hurts . The American Academy of Pediatrics and the Canadian Paediatric Society discourage spanking and other forms of physical punishment . It is unlawful in 32 countries -- not including the United States or Canada -- for parents and other caregivers to use physical punishment against children . The new study 's lead author , Tracie Afifi , said she believes that physical punishment should not be used on children of any age and that positive parenting strategies should instead be encouraged . Preferred methods of discipline do not include physical punishment . For example , withholding privileges , using time-outs and offering consequences ( for example , `` If you throw your toy and it breaks , you wo n't be able to play with it anymore '' ) . African-Americans most likely to use physical punishment . Dr. Howard Bennett , a pediatrician in Washington and clinical professor of pediatrics at George Washington University School of Medicine , recommends praising children when they are behaving well and using time-outs or a process called `` time off , '' in which the child must go to another part of the house for as long as it takes to stop the offending behavior and behave normally again . What are your thoughts on spanking ? If you are a parent who uses spanking for discipline , will this study change your mind ? Where do you draw the line between physical discipline and abuse ? The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of Dr. Jennifer Shu .
Study looks at link between mental health disorders and physical punishment . Other studies have shown that spanking may bring higher risk of depression , criminal behavior . American Academy of Pediatrics discourages spanking and other forms of physical punishment .