Final answer:
Maggie's mother used positive punishment, specifically spanking, a physical punishment, to correct Maggie's behavior. However, studies suggest that such punishment can lead to negative effects like increased aggression and is becoming less favored compared with positive reinforcement strategies.
Step-by-step explanation:
Maggie's mother is attempting to reduce Maggie's undesirable behavior of playing soccer in the house and breaking vases by using a method known as physical punishment, specifically spanking. This type of punishment, where an unpleasant stimulus is applied to decrease a behavior, is considered positive punishment. However, research suggests that while immediate physical punishment might momentarily decrease the undesirable behavior, it may also lead to negative outcomes, such as increased aggression and antisocial behavior. Alternatives like reinforcement of good behavior or non-physical forms of punishment like time-outs are now more favored by experts.
Cultural and educational backgrounds can influence the tendency towards such physical methods of discipline. Studies reveal that these methods may not be effective and can incite more aggression in the recipient. Over time, the understanding of the consequences of this kind of punishment has led to a shift in child-rearing practices, with many opting for positive reinforcement and other non-physical methods when addressing children's behavior.