The big problem, as I've seen it, is when an unruly child knows that spanking isn't permitted. They will push and push and push, knowing that the 'ultimate deterrent' isn't available...

I never needed to spank my children, though they were always led to believe that I might if pushed too hard...

Violence begets violence, and I'm not suggesting that all children respond or react in the same way. That just isn't so.

It's a difficult issue with no 'right answer'. Some parents are irresponsible, so for them having the spanking option is like giving a loaded gun to a five-year-old child. A responsible parent knows how far they need to go without having their bluff called.

It's called 'respect'... and it has to be earned, not demanded.