Should Parents Be Allowed to smack their Children?

[The Boy Genius]

Recently i have been reading about the mother who was warned by the police not to hit her child so i was wondering what do you think?

[mrmcdonaldduck]

i really dont think so. imagine a 3 year old who is acting like a normal kid, picking stuff up and just generally being happy gets smacked by his mum for that. he starts crying and a scene starts and on the whole it would have been better of if she didnt smack him.

[MadManWithaBox]

well there's obviouisly two levels to something like this. When I was a kid, my dad battered me If I did anything wrong. Thats obviously shouldn't be allowed. But a sharp tap, maybe a cuff around the ear, isn't so bad. I don't know, I mean if it was legalised, you'd obviously have parents taking it too far, and hitting their kids too hard, and child abuse cases would become much more frequent.Overall proabbly not, as it would create more problems than it would solve.

[enzenzz]

If the smack was for no reason at all or if it does serious injury then definitely not. Of course I'm not saying that parents should immediately resort to physical punishment, but sometimes verbal discipline is not enough, especially if the kids is not immune to it.

[Sapphire]

Yes, within reason. Smacks can be useful in teaching a child right from wrong when used reasonably and in conjunction with other techniques.

[Zephyr]

Yes, they should.
As Carole said, within reason though.
By associating bad behaviors with something negative,
A child is less likely to repeat it.

Time out, writing sentences and being grounded never worked for me as a child,
I'd give a fake apology to get out of trouble.
However, I sure as hell never repeated bad behavior after I got spanked though.
So spanking is necessary in some cases, as you see.

You obviously don't give the child a thorough beating,
A swatting to the degree that it hurts is generally enough.

[Whisper]

My parents spanked me i turned out fine, you would never hit a kid in public like your vague scenario said.
My mum used to bend down so she was at eye level and start squeezing my hand really hard, she'd tell me: "I need you to listen to me very carefully" in a low serious tone, my hand would be rather sore so I'd listen very closely. If i started to flail or make a scene because of the pain she would march me to the truck and paddle my ass, period.

It didn't take long and both me n my sister were very well behaved at stores or in public period.

[AllThatIsLeft]

there is nothing wrong with measured, none abusive techniques to teach children how to behave...
I was, and I turned out just fine.
so i dont see a problem with disciplinary smacking.

[theOperaGhost]

I see absolutely nothing wrong with mild physical punishment. It's been working on kids for centuries with a small number of negative problems.

Now, I said mild physical punishment...that means a slap or two on the ass with your hand. Absolutely no belts or paddles or anything like that. I also think the age of the child is important. I would never hit a kid under 5 years old. Once a kid turns 5...they are mature enough to handle that kind of punishment. I'd also say that spanking would stop working if the kid is about 11...they are too old for that kind of punishment to be effective.

[Sage]

I voted no since I'm against it in most circumstances, but I really have no problem if it isn't too bad.

[INFERNO]

I think the question is somewhat vague and ambiguous because there can be different levels of "smacking", anything from a light tap to an hard open-hand hit to a hard closed-fist punch. I'm generally in support of "smacking" if it's done so it's not very hard, if there's a valid reason, if the parent(s) have already tried other non-physical methods, if the parents tell the child why the child is being punished and if the punishment is brief (i.e. not several minutes of beating the kid).

I'm not sure what to vote on though because with these issues, one must first establish proper definitions of "smacking", otherwise you're more likely to have people voting for yes or no due to having completely different definitions without accurately defining them. So for now I'm not going to vote until the OP provides their definition of "smacking".

[Sugaree]

The answer is quite simple. Yes, parents should be allowed to smack their children but it should be within reason. A parent shouldn't just randomly smack their child. Using mild physical punishment is a good thing. We all know that little children get into trouble.

Example: A little boy, who we'll call Charlie, keeps stick a fork into an electrical socket. His mother and father both have told him not to do it, yet he keeps at it. Eventually this sends his mother/father to smack him. This will teach Charlie a lesson that he should never stick a fork in an electrical socket.

As long as the parent doesn't take the punishment any further than it needs to be taken, I'm fine with it. It teaches children respect for the authority figures.

[deadpie]

Smacking is allot different than a spanking. Smacking is like using your fists on somebody.

And by reason for smacking people? I don't think their is any excuse you can use for hitting a child, unless they come at you with a weapon or something like that.

No i don't support child abuse you rapid batshit crazy humans.

[Sugaree]

Smacking is allot different than a spanking. Smacking is like using your fists on somebody.


Smacking doesn't involve your fists. Punching involves your fists. Smacking involves and open palm and that's essentially what spanking is.

[IowaBoy]

It should be used as a last resort if the child needs to be restrained.

[Perseus]

As long as the kid isn't being punched in the dome-piece, I see no problem with them being spanked, other than that, too far.

[tyler_52]

yes, but not hard enough to cause an injury or bruise, and anywhere but the balls is fine .... and NO ABUSE

[Camazotz]

Using pain and violence as a form of "lesson" is wrong. There are many other ways to do teach kids not to misbehave. I understand that hitting/spanking are effective on some kids, but any form violence as punishment is inhumane. If that's the only way a person can learn, through violence, they should seek rehabilitation. Quite honestly, if you can't respect authority figures through reasonable talk, you need help. I understand that most kids are unable to do this, but they will learn over time to become civilized.

[Sapphire]

Quite honestly, if you can't respect authority figures through reasonable talk, you need help. I understand that most kids are unable to do this, but they will learn over time to become civilized.
If you admit that most children are unable to understand right from wrong purely through "reasonable talk" until they are older then what do you suggest parents do while they are young?

[Triceratops]

Yes! I think that smacking children is really effective, to an extent of course.
The fact that smacking children for disciplinary reasons had been made illegal is beyond me, no wonder why children are so poorly behaved these days!

I remember when I was a child, I wouldn't dare do anything that I knew would make my parents very angry because I was afraid of being smacked. I know this was the case for my friends at the time as well. Most children in my infant and primary schools tried to be as well-behaved as they could be, because we were all terrified of being smacked.

Smacking children for punishment reasons should be legalized now.

[Sage]

Using pain and violence as a form of "lesson" is wrong. There are many other ways to do teach kids not to misbehave. I understand that hitting/spanking are effective on some kids, but any form violence as punishment is inhumane. If that's the only way a person can learn, through violence, they should seek rehabilitation. Quite honestly, if you can't respect authority figures through reasonable talk, you need help. I understand that most kids are unable to do this, but they will learn over time to become civilized.

I agree with you that teaching people with threats and violence doesn't do any good, but this isn't like that. Do me a favor: Flick the bridge of your nose very hard. Does it hurt? No. But is it a very annoying feeling? Yes. That's the sort of feeling that should be invoked in unruly children.

[Jerrys_Baby]

I agree with nothing more than I slight tap on the hand if he's reaching for, per say, a fire.

[Appleton]

IDK - Can we hit back? (j/k). My parents haven't spanked me in a long time. My dad was in the Marines and he's got a look or a snap of the fingers that stops all wrong or improper activity. His snap can be heard from the other side of the house. Friggin scary!

[Modus Operandi]

I've never been punished physically(that I remember). My dad had a way of looking at me that said "If you do that again, you're dead" and I always stopped. I don't know what would've happened if I didn't, but I don't want to know.

But anyway: I agree with Camazotz. No physical punishment. All that teaches a kid is to be good because someone will hurt them if they don't. All this creates is fear and disrespect for authority figures. Is fear a healthy state for a kid to live in? No. I know this because I lived like that for many years. When a kid gets a little older(11-12)and has learned that hitting is wrong, they think "Wait, if I can't hit other kids, why can my parents hit me?" [/biased opinions]

[tripolar]

Yes they should but only under the circumstance of bad behavior. Sometimes you see some little shit yelling and screaming and throwing things, if after multiple warnings the parent has every right to smack the child.

If parent just smacks a kid for getting a bad grade, or doing something minor then its wrong, but when a child is completely out of control then yes.

[Sapphire]

But anyway: I agree with Camazotz. No physical punishment. All that teaches a kid is to be good because someone will hurt them if they don't. All this creates is fear and disrespect for authority figures. Is fear a healthy state for a kid to live in? No. I know this because I lived like that for many years. When a kid gets a little older(11-12)and has learned that hitting is wrong, they think "Wait, if I can't hit other kids, why can my parents hit me?" [/biased opinions]
I can tell you from personal experience (and that of my brother and my boyfriend) that being smacked after doing something naughty does not make kids disrespect authority or think that hitting others is ok.

[Triceratops]

being smacked after doing something naughty does not make kids disrespect authority or think that hitting others is ok.

^ Precisely.

[-Silence]

I agree with spanking, but not "smacking".

To me, smacking is an open hand to the face and I don't agree that should be allowed.
Now spanking is fine, to a degree, obviously. But, for me, spanking would be the absolute last alternative.

[CaptainObvious]

But anyway: I agree with Camazotz. No physical punishment. All that teaches a kid is to be good because someone will hurt them if they don't. All this creates is fear and disrespect for authority figures. Is fear a healthy state for a kid to live in? No. I know this because I lived like that for many years. When a kid gets a little older(11-12)and has learned that hitting is wrong, they think "Wait, if I can't hit other kids, why can my parents hit me?" [/biased opinions]

...how is this argument not applicable to any other form of discipline. It's also socially unacceptable to forcibly confine other children to "time outs", to shout at them when they misbehave, etc. etc., yet all of those things have certain disciplinary application. You make the assumption here that physical punishment must breed fear, and bad consequences. That could be the case, and improperly applied phyical punishment is certainly undesirable, but I see no reason why reasonably mild physical punishment cannot be used as a part of a parent's disciplinary arsenal. We're not talking about beating the shit out of kids here...

[Quick_Sylver]

I said no, but a light tap of of the fingers is fine by me. I know my dad has backhanded me, but at the time I deserved it. Hitting little kids(5 and under) is completely wrong in my book. I know there are people out there who disagree with me, but this is only my opinion.

[Mind forte]

Yes. I was smacked when I was a child and it taught me discipline. From my personal experience and peoples experiences around me, it's been shown to be a good form of punishment that teaches the child what and what not to do. A smack is not even that violent. But I would rather have children spanked than smacked.

[Camazotz]

What if a teacher hits a student who's misbehaving? I know your answer; "Because the teacher isn't the parent, it's illegal, etc." But what if the parents give permission for the teacher to "smack" or "spank" the student? Does this make it any different? Is it okay for other people to hit other peoples' kids for misbehaving, with the consent of the parent?

[theOperaGhost]

What if a teacher hits a student who's misbehaving? I know your answer; "Because the teacher isn't the parent, it's illegal, etc." But what if the parents give permission for the teacher to "smack" or "spank" the student? Does this make it any different? Is it okay for other people to hit other peoples' kids for misbehaving, with the consent of the parent?

There is a difference. The difference is the effect it has on the child. The child isn't going to know that the parent gave consent AND a parent is generally not going to give consent for that to happen anyway. Why? A parent should be the person who decides a severe punishment like that.

However....teachers could use corporal punishment decades ago and it seemed to work out quite wonderfully. Kids were much better behaved than they are now because of it. I think corporal punishment should be brought back to schools. Kids would be so much better behaved and there would be almost no repercussions because of it. We're not talking about child abuse here...it's just tough love.

[Camazotz]

There is a difference. The difference is the effect it has on the child. The child isn't going to know that the parent gave consent AND a parent is generally not going to give consent for that to happen anyway. Why? A parent should be the person who decides a severe punishment like that.

However....teachers could use corporal punishment decades ago and it seemed to work out quite wonderfully. Kids were much better behaved than they are now because of it. I think corporal punishment should be brought back to schools. Kids would be so much better behaved and there would be almost no repercussions because of it. We're not talking about child abuse here...it's just tough love.

True, but what the point I'm trying to make is, "What if smacking/spanking becomes a standard form of punishment for misbehavior?" Should we teach that using violence is okay in making a point?

[Suicune]

I don't really have a problem with it if it's mild, simple, spank to get your point across to a child. But never too hard...or belts, paddles etc. But other than that I'm talking about if the child is like 11....it's just wrong..or below 5 years old.

[Modus Operandi]

...how is this argument not applicable to any other form of discipline. It's also socially unacceptable to forcibly confine other children to "time outs", to shout at them when they misbehave, etc. etc., yet all of those things have certain disciplinary application. You make the assumption here that physical punishment must breed fear, and bad consequences. That could be the case, and improperly applied phyical punishment is certainly undesirable, but I see no reason why reasonably mild physical punishment cannot be used as a part of a parent's disciplinary arsenal. We're not talking about beating the shit out of kids here...

I never said anything about social unacceptability. And from what I know of the human brain, we FEAR pain, we don't respect the inflicter.

I understand your opinion, and I was just stating mine. And you're right, the discussion wasn't about harsh physical punishment. Perhaps I got a little too into it.

[Modus Operandi]

being smacked after doing something naughty does not make kids disrespect authority or think that hitting others is ok.

I never meant to say it makes kids think hitting is ok, I was meaning to point out hypocrisy.

But you're right. Physical punishment dosen't affect EVERY kid this way, I just think it's not something I would ever do.

EDIT: Mods, I'm sorry about the double post. I hit the edit button, I'm not sure what happened. :(

[Rutherford The Brave]

Well It depends, I mean I think that a tap, or a light slap is all well in good if the child is being disrespectful. Yet, if your angry and your child is being rude don't slap them out of angry. Just be controlled about it.

[coodood]

If someone cannot control there kids without hitting them than, in my opinion, they are not fit to be parents.

[tripolar]

If someone cannot control there kids without hitting them than, in my opinion, they are not fit to be parents.

What if one of the kids are out of control, do you just take all the children away because one can't fucking behave. So tell me this, if your kid is completely out of control and will not listen to anything you say and if you hit them they will stop you'll call yourself a unfit parent and get your kids taken away.

[theOperaGhost]

If someone cannot control there kids without hitting them than, in my opinion, they are not fit to be parents.

So you think that every child who misbehaves only does so because they have bad parents? BULLSHIT.

[Rutherford The Brave]

So you think that every child who misbehaves only does so because they have bad parents? BULLSHIT.

Yeah I mean, I think of myself as a good parent. My child has already learned to misbehave doesnt mean I'm a terrible parent.

[coodood]

So you think that every child who misbehaves only does so because they have bad parents? BULLSHIT.

I didn't say that, if the only way you can control a child is to hit him than your not doing a great job. Of course every child misbehaves but the parents should have control without resorting to violence.

[Sapphire]

Seeing as the person I put this question to has gone quiet, I want to put it to the rest of you.
Most children are unable to understand right from wrong purely through "reasonable talk" until they are older, so what do you suggest parents do while they are young instead of using a smack to reinforce what they are saying?

[Sage]

Seeing as the person I put this question to has gone quiet, I want to put it to the rest of you.
Most children are unable to understand right from wrong purely through "reasonable talk" until they are older, so what do you suggest parents do while they are young instead of using a smack to reinforce what they are saying?

I'd let them. If my kid insists on stealing cookies from the cookie jar, that's fine, he can go and give himself a stomach ache, and have no cookies as dessert after a meal later because he ate them all. It's called learning through experience.

[Sapphire]

I'd let them. If my kid insists on stealing cookies from the cookie jar, that's fine, he can go and give himself a stomach ache, and have no cookies as dessert after a meal later because he ate them all. It's called learning through experience.
And what if your child progressed to stealing toys from other children?
What if your child hit other children because they wanted to play with the toy the other child had?
What if your child stepped out into a busy road without looking and didn't quite understand why you were panicked and telling them off after pulling them to safety?
Would you stand by and let them repeat any of this behaviour?

[Sage]

And what if your child progressed to stealing toys from other children?
What if your child hit other children because they wanted to play with the toy the other child had?

I'd rather not get my kid attached to material bullshit from a young age and instead teach them to make their own fun.

What if your child stepped out into a busy road without looking and didn't quite understand why you were panicked and telling them off after pulling them to safety?

Funny thing is, neither I nor anyone I know ever needed to be scolded or beat into understanding that standing on a busy road is a stupid idea.

[Sapphire]

I'd rather not get my kid attached to material bullshit from a young age and instead teach them to make their own fun.I think you are going to have very bored children but oh well.

Ok, let me put it to you like this.
What if your child kept running off on their own in public places?
What if your child hit other children because the other children weren't being nice to them?

Would you just let them carry on?

Funny thing is, neither I nor anyone I know ever needed to be scolded or beat into understanding that standing on a busy road is a stupid idea.Never scolded for doing so? Hmm...when children are dying in their thousands after being near roads unsupervised, that really does surprise me and it really makes me doubt that you've discussed this properly with the people you are referring to.

[theOperaGhost]

I'd rather not get my kid attached to material bullshit from a young age and instead teach them to make their own fun.



Funny thing is, neither I nor anyone I know ever needed to be scolded or beat into understanding that standing on a busy road is a stupid idea.

Are you serious? You've never be, nor seen anyone scolded for running into a street? I honestly can't believe that. This summer, my god son, he's 2, saw his cat across the road and sprinted after it. He obviously didn't look to see if there was traffic coming first. Little kids don't have the same fore sight that you and I do. They aren't going to think "is there a car coming?" They are just going to go after the object they want to with no regard to safety. Did he get hit for running into the street? No...he's 2, he's to young to get hit. He most certainly got scolded though. Kid's lack foresight and they don't have any regard to their own safety...it has to be taught. Do just expect the kid to run out in the street with no consequences, or are you going to wait until they get hit by a car so they can learn not to run in the street?

[Rutherford The Brave]

Its like the old adage goes, when the kid was fooling around. The parent told them not to stick their hand in the fire. Sure enough the child did and burned it's hand. After that it never did that again.

[My_Toes_Are_Cold]

I don't know about the rest of you, but when I was a kid, I got my ass spanked when I fucked up. I was also smacked and slapped, and I had no negative repurcussions as a result. I just learned not to do those stupid things.

[karl]

Getting a smack is not as bad as being grounded

[Whisper]

What if a teacher hits a student who's misbehaving? I know your answer; "Because the teacher isn't the parent, it's illegal, etc." But what if the parents give permission for the teacher to "smack" or "spank" the student? Does this make it any different? Is it okay for other people to hit other peoples' kids for misbehaving, with the consent of the parent?
For a teacher? Absolutely not
It is the responsibility of the parent as the guide and guardian PERIOD
they don't get to cop out
especially because the punishment has to be at the parents discretion
if they're little and they get 2+2 wrong because they struggle with math will that automatically warrant a strap? Cause shit like that happened to my mum the entire time she was in school
slightest miss-step and SMACK
not a very positive safe environment they created is it?

What if they're left handed?
I know a guy that went to a private school run by nuns when he was younger
He was left handed
so they broke his left hand, snapped it in a vice
in order to force him to write with his right


the ONLY people that could EVER touch me was my mum and dad
and i was never a dick to my teachers

[tripolar]

I don't know about the rest of you, but when I was a kid, I got my ass spanked when I fucked up. I was also smacked and slapped, and I had no negative repurcussions as a result. I just learned not to do those stupid things.

Exactly that is what happens to most kids when they are younger you learn not to be bad and fuck up. And nothing bad happened to you and its the same with most people.

[clone]

i put no but kinda want to change i mean a kid cant grow up to be a rule breaking dip shit who thinks he/she is better then everyone else because that could get them something worse then hit

[Death]

I think that smacking can be a good way of forming discipline and the kids will be better for it. However, the smack must not be violent and must have a valid reason (I.E. smacking a child for choosing to not adher to your religion is sickening).

[boy.on.laptop]

I have only be smacked once in my life for deliberatly pouring ribena(blackcurrant drink) and I think I turned out ok too. There has a been a big debate in New Zealand regarding this because it was recently made illegal. As a christian, the issue only furthered my distaste towards the christian right, where they made a big deal about this but ignoring far more important issues.

I supported the bill because I believe smacking is too often used used as the first resort for child discipline when I believe it should be the very last. The truth is that there are far more effective ways of displining a child.

[Rebecca L Vaughn]

Well, the law says you can punish your child up to the point that it is damaging or abuse.

[Bluearmy]

If any method of disciplining a child is taken to far it ends up backfiring.

[boy.on.laptop]

Well, the law says you can punish your child up to the point that it is damaging or abuse.

Only in some countries, others like New Zealand the law states that smacking is banned(in practice only in abusive cases). Just beacuse the law says something does not mean it is right or wrong. eg. It is good and safe to wear a seatbelt but medical marjuana is illegal in many states even though it has proven anasthetic qualities. Just because the law makes it legal to smack a child, does not make it the correct thing to do.

[theOperaGhost]

Corporal punishment of any kind is also illegal in Sweden (and I'm sure other countries) so it is not legal to hit kids as punishment everywhere and it is frowned upon nearly everywhere.

I, on the other hand, think corporal punishment is a wonderful form of punishment if used correctly in extreme situations and the punishment is not excessive.

[2D]

Parents wouldn't have to hit their kids in any way if they behaved and weren't little pricks.

[Giles]

If the child knows that they are doing something wrong then whack them. If they don't understand that they're doing bad then explain then whack them if they do it again.

[Antares]

YES!
Its good for them.
Kids need to be disiplined MUCH better in my opinion. If parents have to go to the physical once in a while, I think it will help them in the long run.
(As long as they aren't clearly abused, theres a line between beating and spanking)

[searching]

I think there is a very fine line with hitting/spankings but I agree with it. My parents use to spank me when I was younger and they never crossed the line. I believe that I turned out better because of it.

[Nelson]

I do but i dont agree with smacking a child, if they honestly did something wrong yes, but some parents overstep the boundary, i was in ALDI the other day, a 3 or 4 year old kid knocked over a packet of chips, as soon as the mother noticed, she "smacked" her son 5 times on the bottom, 5 times, that i dont agree with, plus the fact that the kid knocked over a packet of chips. If i have children, they will be smacked at a young age only, any older than 5 i belive can lead to problems in teen life. And they will only be smacked if they do something worth smacking them for

[Inconvenience]

of course parents should be allowed to punish their kids. and if "hits" are needed, they are acceptable for me too. like, i would say that violace is acceptable if it serves on childrens own good ;)

no exaggerations ;)

[Doctor Fate]

Hitting children teaches them that it's perfectly OK for them to hit people when they're angry.

Children are learning every day, and shit like this really rubs off them. It's bad.

[Kahn]

Hell no.

Although I am still fine, not mentally hurt or anything, physically I am traumatized. Are you fucking kidding me? The majority answered yes?

I was hit when I was younger over hockey. My Dad beat me if I did bad. And that was every game and practice. My eyes still haven't recovered. My cheekbones hurt occasionally, me eyes are always puffed up to. It sucks. Hitting your child does not fix them, it hurts them. It is sad that many people think they should be able to. It isn't right. Some kids think I'm crying during the day when my eyes are puffy. Others think that they are black eyed. I tell them I was hit by a baseball when I was younger and that is the reason they are like that..

If you were me, or any other person that was abused. Would you want to hit your children? Would you honestly want to put your children through what you were put through?

I'm sorry if I offend you in anyway, but what the hell is wrong with you?

[Sapphire]

Adam, there is a huge difference between abuse and smacking.
None of us are condoning child abuse.

[Kahn]

Who says the parents stop after one smack?

[Sapphire]

If the parents go beyond what is acceptable as a punishment, it becomes illegal. At that point they can be arrested and charged.

[Kahn]

If the parents go beyond what is acceptable as a punishment, it becomes illegal. At that point they can be arrested and charged.

I guess... Sorry, just got upset.

[Resinflux]

Parents deserve to reserve the right to discipline THEIR children how they want, as long as they know there is a exceptionally fine line between teaching a lesson and just being over re-active to something silly.

If a kids running through a store terrorizing the place, you're not allowed to punish them in any form because its abuse, and if you do they take your kid away and put them in a foster home. And most the time the foster homes are 40x worse then being spanked for screaming at the top of your lungs. I mean common sense people you dont just smack the shit outta your child randomly, you explain to them what they did was wrong and if they do it again they will be punished THATS parenting, just beating them up is mean.../end rant

[Sapphire]

If a kids running through a store terrorizing the place, you're not allowed to punish them in any form because its abuse
Somehow I find this very hard to believe...

[Doctor Fate]

I think words do a lot more good than palms and fists and leather belts and sticks.

Say I was the parent of a three year old child, and he or she did something that I consider to be "bad behaviour", like scribbling in a book or throwing toys across the room in anger. I feel that looking the child in the eye and explaining to him or her that that sort of behaviour is not acceptable and, more importantly, why it is not acceptable, and sending him or her to time-out in the corner for a couple of minutes is a helluva lot more constructive and wise then just smacking the crap out of them.

Children need to learn from an early age that we always have a choice in what we do, and when we make a choice, we must be prepared to accept whatever consequences come with those choices and actions. And getting that across in a non-violent way is the best way to teach this valuable life lesson.

[YesterdaysNews]

If its a spank or a slap on the hand, I don't see anything wrong with it, As long as the parents don't cross the line. And the parents reasoning for the punishment is logical.

[Marcie]

I think a 'spanking' when a child has broken rules set by the parent is okay. But smacking due to anger and such I think is NOT okay.

[Nelson]

I think a 'spanking' when a child has broken rules set by the parent is okay. But smacking due to anger and such I think is NOT okay.


Agreed, smacking is a punishment, not a release of anger for the parent. That actually angers me

[Mattasaur94]

I'm not going to vote Yes or No on this.
I think it SHOULD be allowed, but with certain degrees. Obviously there has to be a line drawn somewhere, but if kid's aren't punished (we're talking 6-year-olds here, or I am) then they grow up INCREDIBLY spoilt and obnoxious. Last thing I want is an army of arrogant brats running around.

So. Yes... I think it should be allowed... but within certain extents... There has to be a boundary.

Agreed, smacking is a punishment, not a release of anger for the parent. That actually angers me

I agree with this. And everyone else who say's this too. =P

[Marcie]

Agreed, smacking is a punishment, not a release of anger for the parent. That actually angers me

Very well put.
Yeah it angers me too..

[Nelson]

My dad only smacked me when totally nessesary, like if i broke something or swore at him, he doesnt anymore, but still, my neighbours smack their kids who are 13/14 and im like WTF???

[Katrina]

My Dad smacks me all day long for no apparent reason especially after coming home completely drunk.
On the other hand my step-mother doesn't even care that there is a girl in the house.

[Leprachaun]

Children who act like like little bastard are allowed to be smacked.

[woody92]

I dont think that parents should have the right at ALL to smack their children! My parents have Never smacked me NOT once and thats how I think all familys should be like. What good comes out of smacking children? Nothing. What Does it normaly hurt the child? Yes. Does it have a good efect on the chlid? No, in some cases it can make the child to act, worse than before. These are some of the questions, and answers, that I ask myself with this particualr question. SO no I dont think it should be alowed AT ALL!

[Bluearmy]

It is wrong for a parent or guardian of a minor to smack their child. Punching, slapping, hitting, pushing, throwing, kicking, or even shouting at a child is wrong.

I do however, believe that spanking a child as a form of discipline works, and is within the bounds of my morality. Which is why I voted yes.

[Jean Poutine]

Should Parents Be Allowed to smack their Children?

Without a doubt.

[woody92]

Without a doubt.

Do you have a reason for this answer?

[Giles]

It is wrong for a parent or guardian of a minor to smack their child. Punching, slapping, hitting, pushing, throwing, kicking, or even shouting at a child is wrong.

I do however, believe that spanking a child as a form of discipline works, and is within the bounds of my morality. Which is why I voted yes.

You couldn't get much more contradictory...

You think that shouting at a child is bad, but spanking them as a form of discipline is Ok... How the fuck did you work that out?

[Bluearmy]

You couldn't get much more contradictory...

You think that shouting at a child is bad, but spanking them as a form of discipline is Ok... How the fuck did you work that out?

When my parents got angry with me, they never got down to my level and shouted in my face. (That is what I was talking about). They would just command me to get ready for a spanking. Then they would whip me on the butt, and that was the end of it.

[BeautifulDisaster]

I was physically abused when I was younger, it fucked me up.
Plenty of people who I know are scarred for life because of physical abuse.

I do not agree with it at all.

It's disgusting.

[Sapphire]

Physical abuse is very different to smacking/spanking a child in addition to verbal explanations as to why certain behaviours are wrong.

A parent can smack/spank a child for being naughty without being abusive and a parent can be abusive without smacking/spanking a child for being naughty.

[Giles]

When my parents got angry with me, they never got down to my level and shouted in my face. (That is what I was talking about). They would just command me to get ready for a spanking. Then they would whip me on the butt, and that was the end of it.

Ah right, I misunderstood.

[BeautifulDisaster]

I know full well parents can be abusive without physically hurting someone, hence why I said PHYSICAL abuse.

I consider any damage done physically abusive.

There is NO need for it, at all.

It's extremely damaging & scars that child for life.

[Sapphire]

When my parents got angry with me, they never got down to my level and shouted in my face. (That is what I was talking about). They would just command me to get ready for a spanking. Then they would whip me on the butt, and that was the end of it.
That is abuse, not discipline.
The use of smacking/spanking to reinforce lessons children learn about safety or good behaviour is very, very different to abuse.

[Sapphire]

I know full well parents can be abusive without physically hurting someone, hence why I said PHYSICAL abuse.

I consider any damage done physically abusive.

There is NO need for it, at all.

It's extremely damaging & scars that child for life.
But smacking/spanking does not fall under the same category as abuse. For one, smacking/spanking can aid the learning of children with regards to safety, but abuse does not.
So. can the two really be judged or dealt with by the same measures?

[Sapphire]

I consider any damage done physically abusive.
Any reason as to why you think that?
What if all the damage is done to the person's psychological/emotional state?

[BeautifulDisaster]

Clearly you are not listening to me, I said any damage done is physically abusive, meaning any physical damage, hurt, etc that is inflicted is ABUSE.

I am NOT saying any damage done is just physical abuse, I'm fully aware there are multiple ways to abuse someone, living proof of that, so don't know why you're misunderstanding me here, when it's clear as day what I meant.


Now, I've stated my opinion, that's what this thread wants, end off.

[Sapphire]

Clearly you are not listening to me, I said any damage done is physically abusive, meaning any physical damage, hurt, etc that is inflicted is ABUSE.

I am NOT saying any damage done is just physical abuse, I'm fully aware there are multiple ways to abuse someone, living proof of that, so don't know why you're misunderstanding me here, when it's clear as day what I meant.


Now, I've stated my opinion, that's what this thread wants, end off.
Woah, I only asked simple questions!
Why you have felt the need to jump down my throat about it all (and things unrelated to it) is beyond me.

[BeautifulDisaster]

Why you feel the need to challenge every little thing I say is beyond me too.

[ryanmichael]

yes but theres a fine line between disapline and abuse

[Sapphire]

I don't mean to challenge everything you specifically say so don't take it personally. In a debate I challenge things that differ to my own opinion - it wouldn't be much of a debate otherwise.

[BeautifulDisaster]

Disciplining a kid is not smacking them.
I will never agree to that, ever.

[Giles]

Disciplining a kid is not smacking them.
I will never agree to that, ever.

Some people think that smacking them is discipline. I'm one of them.

[Blank]

yes to a certain extent, smacking the child should be seen as a consequence of the child being bad, not something that the parents should do just to vent their frustration

[BeautifulDisaster]

I think it's extremely damaging for a child to be struck.
It is not discipline.
It's disgusting.

[2D]

I got spanked a few times when I was a kid. I learned my lesson pretty damn soon.

[Sapphire]

I think it's extremely damaging for a child to be struck.
It is not discipline.
It's disgusting.
In cases where they don't know why they are being smacked, it will be damaging. I agree with you on that.
But it isn't always so. Using things like time outs, the naughty step etc and occasionally smacking them when they continue to be naughty in order to reinforce the main forms of discipline does actually work.
I got spanked a few times when I was a kid. I learned my lesson pretty damn soon.
Same here.
The most prominent for me was when I stepped into the road without looking. I was very nearly run over and am only here today because my parents were able to drag me onto the pavement. I didn't appreciate the seriousness of it and my parents smacked me for not looking both ways. Needless to say, I learned that lesson p.d.q!

[Ripplemagne]

Good parents don't need to smack their kids. *Ticks the no button.*

[cody2010]

are we talking about spankings or smaking in the face? i was spanked as a little kid so i think that's ok. but parents smaking their children in the face, not so much.

[Sapphire]

This site (http://www.babyworld.co.uk/information/baby/behaviour/to_smack_or_not.asp) has some interesting contributions to this debate. Dr Christopher Green believes that 'smacking has its main usefulness in the younger child'. At this age, words are less effective than some decisive action. You can debate all day with a defiant two-year-old … but the chances are that words may miss the mark, while a gentle gesture of a smack may land centre bulls-eye, right on the target.' What are the pros, then, of smacking? Green says:


A smack, used appropriately, will set limits and let the child know who is in charge.
Used at the right time, a smack can stop the escalation of tension and bad behaviour.
When a parent's authority is being tested, and all else has failed, a smack can bring a resolution to a situation in minutes, rather than hours.
Smacking can act as a good deterrent to danger, especially in life-threatening situations. It tells your child that their actions shouldn't be repeated.

[BeautifulDisaster]

I don't think any violence on a child is acceptable, for whatever reason.

I think a parent needs to be patient with their child, and speak in a firm, but calm tone to them, and time out/naughty step works exceptionally well from the Super Nanny episodes I've watched, & there was one lady who spanked & smacked her children, it was disgusting & outrageous.
But, she was taught the naughty step, the kids behavior got better, & everything seemed to be in more control.

I don't think spanking, smacking, hitting, anything is any way to discipline a child, it has scarred me for life, & I know it has scarred others for life too.

It can have detrimental effects on a child.

I honestly do not agree with it & I hate it with every fiber of my being.

[nachtspiegel]

Within reason.
If a child hits a parent, a parent has every right to smack their child.
I also think that it's acceptable when other techniques don't work.

[Jenna.]

Yes because a lot of today's kids are bratty and self centered so they need to be smacked.

[BeautifulDisaster]

How exactly would that help anything?
Smacking a child back if they hit you?
It'd be teaching nothing at all.
It'd repeat the circle all over again.
Teaching that violence is the answer.
I think if a child hits you, you should firmly, but calmly, explain that's wrong & put them in time out, or take away one of their favorite toys, etc.

When my cousin hit me, I did not hit him back.
He's a damn child(actually, 3 years old at this time, so just coming out of the toddler stage), he is still learning right from wrong, two wrongs do not make a right, smacking him back would have done nothing good.

[BeautifulDisaster]

Yes because a lot of today's kids are bratty and self centered so they need to be smacked.

You wonder why they're like that, take a good look at the parents nowadays.

Kids don't need to be smacked because they are "bratty" or "self centered", kids are naturally self centered, they don't really think about anyone else, they are still growing, learning in this world, and they are ignorant to what goes on around them.

That does NOT qualify a smack.

It qualifies talking to them, but not a smack...

That logic is beyond me.

[Jenna.]

Spanking your child once when they're extremely out of control isn't anything horrible to me. It's when it turns into more smacks that it's uncalled for and when it turns into abuse. I think when it all comes down to it, it's the parent's decision for how they want to raise their child (if a smack is part of their discipline routine, so be it. Who are we to tell parents how to discipline their children?) but one smack every now and then when the child's being very disobedient isn't the worst thing that can happen.

[BeautifulDisaster]

I don't care if it isn't the worst damn thing that can happen, it's disgusting and I can't for the life of me figure out why anyone would want to smack their own child, for any reason at all, it's unacceptable, and I think it can be very damaging for the child and it could effect them even as they go into adulthood.

[nachtspiegel]

I don't care if it isn't the worst damn thing that can happen, it's disgusting and I can't for the life of me figure out why anyone would want to smack their own child, for any reason at all, it's unacceptable, and I think it can be very damaging for the child and it could effect them even as they go into adulthood.

Once a child is bold enough to strike someone, time outs and verbal discipline aren't going to be effective.
I don't agree with smacking a child for doing something that they don't know is wrong, in general, but saying "don't hit Mommy, that's bad," taking little Junior's Tonka truck, and putting him in the corner isn't going to do anything once Junior is bold enough to strike.
My friend's son is ten and he smacks her, pinches her, and hits her with inanimate objects. Had she knocked him flat on his ass the first time he hit her, she probably wouldn't have this problem right now.
My mother was never the type to go smacking on her kids unless they did one of two things: called her a bitch/cunt/whore (which happened often, and she didn't usually hit) or unless one of her children tried to hit her.
When my sister was fifteen, she drew her first as to imply that she was going to punch our mother, and our mother uppercutted her hard enough to knock her into the wall.
In general, I don't agree with that kind of thing, but you better believe my sister never raised her fist like that again.

Verbal discipline doesn't always work.

[BeautifulDisaster]

I don't agree with it still, whether a child is five or twelve, it's wrong to hit a child.

There are plenty of other ways to go about it.

[badash]

yes. kids these days need to have some sense knocked into them

[nachtspiegel]

I don't agree with it still, whether a child is five or twelve, it's wrong to hit a child.

There are plenty of other ways to go about it.

What other ways? If verbal reprimands and taking away possessions and privileges don't work, what else is there?
And, besides, children need to know that they can't get away with attacking people unprovoked. If they hit someone in the real world, Mommy and Daddy won't be there to protect them. And there's still a matter of discipline... kids can't just go smacking their parents.

[BeautifulDisaster]

I don't agree with hitting a child, end off.

[hot man]

yes definatly

[nachtspiegel]

I don't agree with hitting a child, end off.

That's fine. We can agree to disagree. But why, might I ask, do you go on about "other ways" if you can't explain those ways?

[BeautifulDisaster]

I say don't give up on those ways, every child is worth it.

So many are ignorant to the damage this causes children, I really am shocked at this, urgh.

[Sapphire]

You wonder why they're like that, take a good look at the parents nowadays.Kids are like that because their parents are either absent or permissive and let them get away with blue murder. Not because they are kids.

Verbal discipline doesn't always work.QFT!

I say don't give up on those ways, every child is worth it.

So many are ignorant to the damage this causes children, I really am shocked at this, urgh.Don't give up on what? The time outs and the naughty step?
I wonder whether you really would stick to these if your 7 year old repeatedly hit you with hard objects and never seemed to learn after having privileges removed, being sent to the naughty step and being given time outs.

It is more damaging to the kid if you don't discipline them enough or properly tbh.

[BeautifulDisaster]

TBH, that's your opinion, don't at all agree with it, but I know for a fact I'd never strike my child. That's disgusting and awful to do. I would never give up on my child, and if that didn't work, then I'd see a professional about perhaps anger management for him/her, because clearly it must be something more than just simply disciplining him/her, clearly there is something more going on if it is that severe. But no, I'd never smack my child, or physically harm them at all. It's down right wrong. I'm not going to make the same mistakes my own parents did with me. Fucked me up good and proper. I don't want that for my children, or any other children.

[Death]

TBH, that's your opinion, don't at all agree with it, but I know for a fact I'd never strike my child. That's disgusting and awful to do.

That's why you get shits in this world. A slap hurts one's pride only, and teaches them to behave better.

[BeautifulDisaster]

It does NOT hurt one's pride ONLY, wow... Arrogance & Ignorance much.

& Get over my opinion already, I think this is a sick debate and it shows how fucked in the head people are.

[Sapphire]

It isn't just my opinion actually. Research permissive parenting and its effects. This parenting style basically creates selfish and bratty kids.

I'm not saying that you should strike your child. If you can find alternatives to everything we have discussed here that can be used in serious situations and have the desired effect, then that is great.
(I would be very interested in hearing about alternatives if you ever think of one)
I am wondering whether you really would just stick with the behavioural methods we have discussed (naughty step etc) when faced with a child who is persistently violent towards you.

I find enrolling 'problem children' onto anger management courses is a good way to right the wrong(s) you made as a parent in the first place.
Surely though, it would have been better to employ a broader range of discipline methods from the get-go rather than using the same methods for when your child has stepped out into the road without looking and when they aren't sharing their toys with a friend.

Abuse and the infrequent swift slap on the bottom are not the same. They do not have the same effects on children.

[Death]

Jeez, get over my opinion already, I think this is a sick debate and it shows how fucked in the head people are.

Just because you disagree, it doesn't mean that you have to insult those who do install discipline. I mean seriously, we're not talking about beating a child up, because yes, that would be wrong. I'm talking about a light slap which would probably only surprise a child and make them behave better. Believe me, it works. They come away as nicer people.

BTW, thanks for calling me fucked in the head.

[BeautifulDisaster]

You're very welcome.

[Triceratops]

I think a parent needs to be patient with their child, and speak in a firm, but calm tone to them, and time out/naughty step works exceptionally well from the Super Nanny episodes I've watched, & there was one lady who spanked & smacked her children, it was disgusting & outrageous.
But, she was taught the naughty step, the kids behavior got better, & everything seemed to be in more control.

You do realise that Channel 4 (where Super Nanny is shown) edit and conceal a whole number of things; they especially stage a lot of what they show as well.

Besides, I was also taught that naughty step technique, and I can tell you damn straight that it was no where near as efficient as a smack was.


I think if a child hits you, you should firmly, but calmly, explain that's wrong & put them in time out, or take away one of their favorite toys, etc.


LOL.
Do you seriously think that a two year old is going to listen to someone calmly telling them: "Oh, no. That is very wrong" ? You would be hard-pressed to prove these ways are as an effective form discipline as smacking would be.

Good luck in parenting. >_>

I don't think spanking, smacking, hitting, anything is any way to discipline a child, it has scarred me for life, & I know it has scarred others for life too.

That all depends on severity.
If one smack on the backside is given to the child for being rude to the parent, then that's highly unlikely to "scar" them for life. It's not as if a responsible parent is going to give their child a blow to the head with a hammer for spilling juice on the carpet, or something similar.

[BeautifulDisaster]

lol, okay then. ;)

Au revior.

[Sapphire]

& Get over my opinion already, I think this is a sick debate and it shows how fucked in the head people are.
If you don't want to debate anymore, leave the thread. I'm not particularly bothered by your opinion and all I am doing is simply discussing/debating.
I see where you are coming from, I understand but I don't agree. I am not fucked in the head simply because I don't agree with you.

[Death]

I agree with Sapphire. This is supposed to be a debate - NOT a bashing. +Rep to Sapphire

[Triceratops]

^ Exactly.

lol, okay then. ;)

Au revior.

Why respond with pointless posts like this in a debate thread; all it does is show that you have failed to come up with a decent counter-argument.

Tbh, you are probably being the most ignorant participant in this thread so far.

[Jenna.]

yes. kids these days need to have some sense knocked into them

You said it perfectly. Some kids are out of control and the only way to get their attention is to smack them.

[ltimm]

a smack on the wrist or rear but that's all.

[Giles]

I can't be bothered to quote whoever it was that was taking the debate seriously... In Rotw, the best debaters often play Devils advocate.
It's not a personal thing so don't assume it is.

[Nelson]

Why you feel the need to challenge every little thing I say is beyond me too.

I totally agree with you... Sapphire, sorry to flame.. but lay off everyone

[2D]

This is a debate. Not a "lol okay we both said our opinions lets leave."

If you're not going to answer questions posed to you then leave.

I use me as an example. Timeout did shit for me. I remember. The only thing I would respond strongly to was a spanking. Never did what caused me to get spanked again. I'm also not scarred for life.

[Death]

This is a debate. Not a "lol okay we both said our opinions lets leave."

If you're not going to answer questions posed to you then leave.

^ Precisely.
Dylann258, she dug her own grave (and remember that you are asking a moderator to 'lay off' too).

I use me as an example. Timeout did shit for me. I remember. The only thing I would respond strongly to was a spanking. Never did what caused me to get spanked again. I'm also not scarred for life.

I agree fully. I hate it when people say that smacking is not a suitable punishment. It's the most effective method and will soon stamp out bad bahaviour. The kids even grow up to respect you.

[woody92]

^ Precisely.
Dylann258, she dug her own grave (and remember that you are asking a moderator to 'lay off' too).

I dont think that Sapphire is a Moderator you know:)! She has just been on here along time and knows how to act on these forums.

[Appleton]

I've been spanked before when I was younger for doing wrong and I understand that. What I don't understand and dont think should be allowed is what happened to me yesterday. After a stupid "family" dinner at a restaurant with my dad who doesn't even live with us, we got into a verbal exchange that flowed into the parking lot. After telling me that I was stupid and disrespectful, my "father" then took his open hand and slapped me as hard as he could across my cheek. I love how those that can't participate in a dialogue resort to physical abuse.

And trust me....I don't respect him.

[Salvi]

there's nothing wrong with smacking your kids, as long as you have a reason and that reason is a good one, you smack your kid so they won't do whatever they did that you didn't like again

[nachtspiegel]

These made me think of this thread.

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs240.snc3/22772_1201704283110_1243661641_30472721_6838018_n.jpg

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs188.snc3/19539_1264868593435_1581386208_638298_2465838_n.jpg

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs196.snc3/20374_468108515393_887480393_11127299_478088_n.jpg

[Giles]

These made me think of this thread.

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs240.snc3/22772_1201704283110_1243661641_30472721_6838018_n.jpg

http://hphotos-snc3.fbcdn.net/hs188.snc3/19539_1264868593435_1581386208_638298_2465838_n.jpg

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs196.snc3/20374_468108515393_887480393_11127299_478088_n.jpg


/thread

[Death]

I dont think that Sapphire is a Moderator you know:)!

I didn't say she was. I was actually referring to Pandora.

She has just been on here along time and knows how to act on these forums.

By insulting those who disagree with you?

[woody92]

I didn't say she was. I was actually referring to Pandora./QUOTE]
If you read dylan258's post.. He says:
[QUOTE=dylann258;785876]I totally agree with you... Sapphire, sorry to flame.. but lay off everyone

In other words he is telling Sapphire to lay off. He's not telling Pandora to lay off at all! Then you come up with the comment:
Dylann258, she dug her own grave (and remember that you are asking a moderator to 'lay off' too).
Here you didnt make it clear that you were talking about Pandora. Thats why I asumed that you were talking bout Sapphire. He was telling Sapphire to lay off everyone, not Pandora! (well thats what I have understood from this thread!)
By insulting those who disagree with you?
I didnt mean it in an insulting way! I was saying that she knows how to act on these forums as she has been here for ages!
I didnt mean it in any way to ofend you or anyone else! I am sorry if it came across like that, but I dont say it to offend anyone :)

[Sapphire]

By insulting those who disagree with you?
Ahem.
The only one who has been insulting those who don't agree with them has been Aimee - not me.

[Death]

In other words he is telling Sapphire to lay off. He's not telling Pandora to lay off at all!

Afterwards, it says 'lay off everyone' in his post. That would include Pandora.

I didnt mean it in an insulting way! I was saying that she knows how to act on these forums as she has been here for ages!
I didnt mean it in any way to ofend you or anyone else! I am sorry if it came across like that, but I dont say it to offend anyone :)

She may well know how to behave; I simply didn't see it here. Don't worry, I'm not offended.

Ahem.
The only one who has been insulting those who don't agree with them has been Aimee - not me.

I never said that it was you at all. I said that it was BeautifulDisaster doing it. There was nothing wrong with your arguments.

[Sapphire]

I never said that it was you at all. I said that it was BeautifulDisaster doing it. There was nothing wrong with your arguments.
Sorry, I evidently read your post wrong lol. Thanks for clearing it up :)

[woody92]

Afterwards, it says 'lay off everyone' in his post. That would include Pandora.
Ok, well then I may have misunderstood Dylans post because for me when someone says:
ISapphire, sorry to flame.. but lay off everyone
that to me is Dylan telling Sapphire to lay off everyone. Not every one lay off, as you see it.

She may well know how to behave; I simply didn't see it here. Don't worry, I'm not offended.
I am glad your not offended.

I never said that it was you at all. I said that it was BeautifulDisaster doing it. There was nothing wrong with your arguments.
I agree there is nothing wrong with your arguments at all. Infact I find them helpfull in some ways!
Sorry, I evidently read your post wrong lol. Thanks for clearing it up :)
I do feel that I have to apologise to you and to Death for starting this sarga of who has posted what and who means what. I just get confused sometimes and understand the posts as either negative posts, or when someone says something, due to culture diffrences and all that, I missunderstand the point they are trying to make of I understand their view from my culture which means something diffrent in other cultures. (remember I have english and spanish culture mixed in because I am english but I live in Spain) SO I am sorry for all the confusion and all.:)
I hope I havent offended anyone!

[iceyfresh]

No it can mess up the kid later in te future

[littlerascal]

No it can mess up the kid later in te future

No, abuse messes up a kid in the future. Corporal punishment does NOT mess a kid up...in fact it has quite the opposite effect. Apart from ending a certain behavior that shouldn't happen, it makes the kid more respectful.

[nachtspiegel]

I can't be bothered to quote whoever it was that was taking the debate seriously... In Rotw, the best debaters often play Devils advocate.
It's not a personal thing so don't assume it is.

In this debate, which standpoint do you feel correlates with devil's advocacy?

[Death]

I hope I havent offended anyone!

It's fine woody92, don't worry about it.

No it can mess up the kid later in te future

What do you mean by mess up? Note that we are talking about a smack for misbehaviour; not physical abuse.

No, abuse messes up a kid in the future. Corporal punishment does NOT mess a kid up...in fact it has quite the opposite effect. Apart from ending a certain behavior that shouldn't happen, it makes the kid more respectful.

I agree. There is a significant difference between discipline and abuse. A smack (doesn't even have to be hard) when someone really deserves it will not harm them; it will help them (they will behave better, not repeat what they've done (usually), and come to respect you more in the long run).