Longitudinal Patterns of Maternal Spanking: Variations by Race and Ethnicity

• In Event: Adverse Childhood Experiences and their Impact on Later Life Outcomes

Abstract

The study examined longitudinal patterns in maternal spanking (onset, prevalence, frequency, and continuity), as well as variations in these patterns between and within racial and ethnic groups. Growth curve models were employed using maternal reports from the Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study (N = 2,340) at child ages of 3, 5, and 9. Findings revealed evidence of both stability and change in maternal spanking over the study period. While racial and ethnic differences emerged, there was also considerable overlap between groups, particularly in areas that reflected the most common patterns of spanking. Racial and ethnic differences were more likely to be observed when considering less frequent phenomena of spanking such as early onset and consistent use of spanking. Additional findings showed that mothers without partners and those with partners who spanked had higher odds of spanking and spanked more frequently. Findings highlight the need for researchers to carefully consider variability both between and within groups to avoid reification of existing stereotypes of parental behavior.

Author

• Wendi Johnson, Oakland University