Research supports the principled case for law reform:

• It shows that most children are hit and many are hit severely.
• It shows a link between physical punishment and aggressive and anti-social behaviour.
• It shows that children feel hurt when they are smacked.
• It shows that parents do not believe that physical punishment works.
• It shows that professionals think reform will help them protect children more effectively.
• It shows that public opinion is not opposed to change.
• It shows that law reform in other countries is working for the benefit of all.