Discipline is crucial in child-rearing, but some methods can be more harmful than helpful. Here are eight destructive discipline techniques to avoid:

1. Physical punishment: Spanking or hitting can lead to aggression and mental health issues.
2. Yelling and screaming: This creates fear and anxiety, damaging the parent-child relationship.
3. Shaming: Public humiliation or degrading comments harm a child’s self-esteem.
4. Withholding affection: Using love as a bargaining chip can lead to attachment issues.
5. Excessive time-outs: Isolating a child for too long can be emotionally damaging.
6. Comparing siblings: This fosters rivalry and damages self-worth.
7. Threats: Empty threats undermine parental authority and create distrust.
8. Inconsistency: Unpredictable discipline confuses children and hinders learning.

Instead, focus on positive reinforcement, clear communication, and age-appropriate consequences to foster healthy development and strong relationships.