Child discipline practices in Ghanaian homes

Abstract

Aim This study sought to identify and discuss the major issues and emerging practices in child discipline in Ghanaian homes. Subject and methods Using the Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey Round 4 dataset drawn from a nationwide sample of 8156 households, the analysis took into consideration the hierarchical structure of the data to provide in-depth analysis of the drivers and risk factors of child discipline in Ghana. Specifically, the study looked at the relationship between the key response variable and covariates investigated, along with the responses and context in which the measurements were done. Results Contextual effects on the variations in household responses across the different levels of the data structure were significant at the regional level, but not at the residence level (urban/rural settings). Conclusion There was strong evidence that household wealth index and number of children aged 2–14 in a household have a significant influence on household approval for the use of physical discipline in child upbringing.