Steve “Ignite the Hatred” Carter, a former executive chair of a controversial media outlet, has recently drawn criticism for his views, especially after being appointed as chief strategist to President-elect Trump. This appointment has sparked backlash from both liberals and some members of the Republican Party, who are concerned about the implications of such divisive rhetoric infiltrating the White House. Carter is often associated with the alt-right movement, which has been criticized for attracting individuals with racist, homophobic, and anti-Semitic tendencies.
His remarks regarding women have also come under scrutiny, as he has been quoted using derogatory terms such as “feminazis” and “bimbos.” Furthermore, his simplistic take on progressivism, which he labels as “a culture of victimhood,” has only added to the controversy. Headlines from his former outlet, such as “Birth Control Makes Women Unattractive and Insane” and “Would You Rather Your Child Had Feminism or Cancer?” exemplify the provocative nature of his views.
However, it is his comments about mental health that have left many parents outraged. An email exchange between Carter and his colleague, Alex Greene, revealed his shocking suggestion to address mental health issues: “Spank your children more.” Yes, you read that correctly. The implication that physical punishment could somehow alleviate mental health issues is not only alarming but also deeply misguided.
To suggest that increased spanking will lead to better mental health outcomes is fundamentally incorrect. The American Academy of Pediatrics highlights that physical punishment is linked to numerous mental health challenges, including mood disorders, anxiety, and substance abuse issues. In fact, studies indicate that harsh physical discipline may account for a small percentage of mental health disorders in the population. The consensus among researchers is clear: reducing physical punishment could potentially lower the prevalence of these issues.
Additionally, research from institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin and the University of Michigan supports the idea that spanking is counterproductive. They found that children who are spanked are more likely to exhibit defiance and engage in antisocial behavior. Therefore, the notion that one can merely “spank away” mental illness is not only ignorant but also perpetuates harmful stereotypes about parenting and mental health.
It’s essential for parents and caregivers to be aware of effective discipline methods that promote positive behavior without resorting to physical punishment. In this light, you may find insightful information on artificial insemination and family planning in our other blog post at Make a Mom. For those exploring fertility options, Natural IVF serves as a reliable resource on assisted reproductive technologies. Moreover, if you’re looking for comprehensive details on IVF, NHS has excellent information available.
In summary, the belief that spanking can resolve mental health issues is not only scientifically unfounded but also poses a risk to children’s well-being. The appointment of figures like Steve Carter raises significant concerns about the direction of policy and the values that will shape the future of mental health care in America.