Surprising Number of Millennial and Gen Z Parents Spank Their Kids Study Says

June 18, 2026 - 01:14

A new study reveals that nearly one in five millennial and Gen Z parents still use spanking as a form of discipline, a finding that has reignited conversations about parenting methods in the modern era. The research, which surveyed thousands of parents under the age of 40, shows that 18 percent admit to spanking their children, despite decades of pediatric guidance advising against the practice.

The numbers challenge the assumption that younger generations have fully abandoned physical punishment. While many millennial and Gen Z parents grew up in households where spanking was routine, experts say the persistence of the practice suggests a gap between what parents know and what they do in the heat of the moment. Stress, lack of sleep, and a shortage of alternative discipline strategies are often cited as reasons.

Child development specialists argue that spanking is linked to increased aggression, anxiety, and a damaged parent-child bond. The American Academy of Pediatrics has long recommended positive reinforcement and clear, consistent consequences instead. Yet the study indicates that cultural norms and family traditions remain powerful influences.

Some parents defend spanking as a quick, effective tool for correcting behavior, especially with younger children. Others say they feel judged for choosing a method their own parents used. The debate highlights a broader struggle: how to balance respect for past practices with evolving scientific understanding of child development. As the conversation continues, many experts hope the findings will encourage more resources for parents seeking non-physical discipline techniques.