Are We Failing Kids With Soft Discipline? Episode 527

In this episode, Niall is joined by Laura Perrins from Gript Media to dive into one of the most debated parenting topics: discipline. The conversation started after Laura posted on X, “Smarter parents know what is better parenting, usually. Smart parents don’t usually hit or shout at their children which does impact personality later on.”

Niall and Laura unpack whether shouting really leaves a lasting mark on children’s lives, or if society has gone too soft—removing consequences for bad behaviour. Together, they explore the balance between guidance, discipline, and resilience in parenting today.

Listeners also join the conversation, sharing their own experiences and opinions:

One caller argues that shouting can be as damaging as hitting, creating anxiety and resentment in children.

Another believes that without firm discipline—including raising your voice when needed—kids grow up without boundaries or respect for authority.

Others suggest alternative approaches, like consistent consequences, positive reinforcement, or time-outs, as healthier tools for shaping behaviour.

This lively and sometimes controversial discussion asks: what really works when raising children, and are we setting kids up for success—or failure—through the way we discipline?