The broad aim of the research was to examine parenting styles and discipline from a child’s
perspective. Specifically, the following questions were addressed:
n What are children’s perspectives on the nature of parenting roles?
n What are children’s perceptions of the effects of different parenting styles and disciplinary
strategies, including physical punishment, on their lives?
n How do children position themselves within the family and what is their understanding of
their rights and responsibilities within the family?
n Do children’s understanding and perspectives change over time (i.e. as they become older)?
n What are children’s perspectives on legislation and policy relating to physical punishment in
the home?