I am someone who whilst suffers no obvious issues from smacking in her childhood, but has a heightened strain on her relationship with her mother which could largely attributed to the fear that was felt. I do not communicate well with her, out of fear of disapproval; I am often not honest with her, out of fear of repercussions, disapproval, argument; I have only just started making adult decisions for myself, despite having been out of home for four years, because I was too scared of her opinions. I think smacking has a lot to do with this... however I could be wrong.
Cookie.. you took my thoughts and put them into words .. i feel exactly the same way ..


I also agree that you can not judge a parent by the childs behavior .. DS can chuck a wranger in public , or can be disobiedient all day ... Yet I do belive i am a caring loving wonderful mum.. the "i love yous " i get right before bed says it all

its down to 50/50 ... 50% love 50% disipline = well rounded child... but hey no one is perfect