The model based on social learning assumptions asserted that corporal punishment influences aggressive child behavior. The model based on temperament theory suggested that aggressive child behavior influences parental use of corporal punishment. The analysis assessed corporal punishment from the perspectives of the father, the mother, and the child. Path analyses revealed that the social learning model was most consistent with the data. The corroboration of the social learning view suggests that the prevention and treatment of child maltreatment should have far-reaching effects in that helping parents change their behaviors should lead to changes in child behavior later. A clinician assuming the social learning view may be concerned with training parents in alternative discipline methods and might use a cognitive-behavioral anger management therapy group for parents or a solution-based problemsolving approach. Figures, tables, and 43 references (Author abstract modified)