Hi, I can say as a child we were smacked and had the strap etc: I felt then it was tough, but now tend to think it was warranted when it did happen, although in saying that I don't like to smack unless in dangerous circumstances???? I smacked my DS the other day for running out of a shop towards the road, It was'nt hard, but people looked at me!!!!

The reason I don't like to smack is I feel bad.....But I am not sure what the solution is, I agree there are so many more children out there these days that have no boundaries, and I do think it is lack of disipiline and perhaps more freedom. Also I think I have given my oldest DD way to much and she does'nt respect a lot of what she has, you think you are doing them a favour by buying the lastest things, but I think it is a mistake, old fashioned values, working for the things you recieve and daily household chores that they are'nt given pocket money for, becuase after all that is a part of being a memebr of a household. Are definately the way to go!!!!

Sorry not much help but looking a few years ahead to try to stop the next lot of problems. Best of luck, hope you find an answer soon.