Harshly parented children show poorer development of stress regulation

As toddlers age into the preschool years, their dependency on their parents usually begins to ebb. However, a new study led by Penn State researchers has revealed that physically or psychologically aggressive parenting, such as spanking or shouting, can disrupt this pattern to the detriment of both child and mother, with the child requiring more external regulation, rather than less, as they age.