Home‐visiting mental health professionals' differentiations between acceptable and unacceptable parent discipline behaviours in Hong Kong: A q‐study

Abstract

Home-visiting mental health professionals (HMHPs) have an important role in identifying suspected child maltreatment in the community. However, it is unclear how professionals in Hong Kong differentiate acceptable discipline behaviours from reportable forms of abuse, and how their characteristics may influence their view. This study examined HMHPs' views on acceptable versus unacceptable parent discipline behaviours. Using Q-methodology, 50 HMHPs in Hong Kong sorted 52 statements on parent discipline behaviours along a continuum ranging from 'Most Unacceptable' to 'Most Acceptable'. Byperson factor analysis was conducted to uncover prevailing views based on their sorts. Three unique viewpoints in differentiating discipline behaviours from abuse were uncovered, which varied based on how HMHPs prioritised children's physical safety, mental wellness and parental intention. Different views were supported by professionals with different characteristics and occupational backgrounds. K E Y W O R D S child abuse, discipline behaviour, parenting, corporal punishment, Q-methodology Key Practitioner Messages • Three unique viewpoints on differentiating parent discipline behaviours and child abuse were uncovered among 50 HMHPs. • These viewpoints were associated with different professional backgrounds and demographic characteristics. • Views on discipline versus abuse differed by the perceived risk of harm and intent of parent discipline behaviours.