Foreword
Section 59 of the Crimes Act 1961 provides a defence to parents charged with various offences relating to physical assaults of their children. The Government is currently considering issues related to section 59, in the context of a work programme to improve New Zealand's compliance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child. To assist this work, it is important to gain an understanding of the views currently held by New Zealanders on the physical discipline of children.
In June 2001, the Ministry of Justice commissioned a stand-alone telephone survey of 1000 adults to ascertain their attitudes towards the use of physical discipline on children. This report contains the results of that survey. The survey complements previous studies that have been done in this area by other government agencies and academic researchers.
The use of physical discipline on children is an issue that generates considerable interest and debate. While the survey was primarily commissioned to inform policy advice to Government, it is also available as a resource to others who have an interest in this issue. The survey findings provide a valuable insight into New Zealanders' current attitudes towards parenting practice and the use of physical discipline.
Belinda Clark
Secretary for Justice
