[Ammi]

Originally Posted by Livia

It is not like exercising your power just because you can. My father told me that on the two occasions he smacked me as a child he felt terrible, he didn't enjoy it, but there was no other way. I believe him... he is my hero.

Unless parents abuse their children physically, I'd say it is the business of no one how they raise their children and what punishment they see fit. It is especially not the business of people like you and me who don't actually have children. Like I said, there are plenty of kids who need people taking up their cause, but loved children who get the occasional smack are not those kids.

Originally Posted by MTVN

Same with me, I had a couple of pretty light smacks and I never resented my parents for it at all, or lost any respect for them, I was a right irritating bastard at times when I was little but I think I've turned out fine and I've got a really good relationship with my parents for the most part

BIB...I guess that is the proof that a light smack on a rare occassion had no lasting harm or effect. I agree with Livia, there are far too many children on the at risk register for Laurie Penny to try and help without concerns about an occassional smack from a loving and caring parent.