'Black-ish' episode re-ignites spanking debate

NEW YORK (WABC) -- It's a question many parents debate -- to spank or not to spank. And the controversial topic is front and center again after Wednesday night's episode of the ABC comedy "Black-ish."

Characters Dre and his wife disagree on whether or not their misbehaving son should meet the belt, even taking the question to co-workers.

While the show isn't real, the dilemma is for many parents. The episode is sparking a conversation online, with one viewer tweeting "No
spanking in my house." Another posted "Personally I'm glad I got spankings."

"It's actually really common for parents to disagree on discipline practices," Dr. Tina Payne Bryson said. "A lot of conflicts can come up. Our views on spanking is typically based on our own experiences of how we were disciplined."

While spanking used to be widely accepted, even on television, it's a whole different story today.

In many cases, the topic highlights a generational divide, with those who spanked in the past saying it's fine for the present.

But experts say that tradition may not be the best way to teach your kids a lesson.

"Our discipline approaches should be around giving kids practice building skills," Dr. Bryson said. "Giving them practice doing things the right way."

Though it's easier said than done in the midst of a tantrum, the most effective method of discipline is positive reinforcement.