To smack or not to smack

[delphmoon]

I agree with everyone- sure makes me wonder where the smackers are though as I have seen plenty of parent smacking their children at the shops.

I think by smacking your teaching your children bad habits when it comes to dealing with things. They learn that when they get mad to go smack someone like mum or dad did.

I also think alot of the older generations would describe smacking as 'discipline' rather than violence. In fact, in my discussions with older generations (70+) commonly, they blame lack of smacking (discipline) in todays society for the large amount of teenage social problems these days.

I am not in any way for smacking- just interesting to hear the different viewpots from different generations.

[Beach Mama]

I agree with everyone- sure makes me wonder where the smackers are though as I have seen plenty of parent smacking their children at the shops.

Probably here but too shy and wary of the judgment and outcry if they choose it as a way of discipline I would say.

I see a difference in smacking/violence/hitting, yes a smack is hitting, but for us it's controlled, on the bum/thigh, flat hand etc. Yes I realise many people wouldn't and don't distinguish the difference and say violence is violence, but to those who do and have smacked, I'm sure would see it differently. Have I felt bad and realised it made no difference to my kids afterwards?? You bet. Did I regret it and apologise to make my children realise that I am human and am HUGELY sorry once I have smacked them? You bet and I know I am far from perfect and luckily it doesn't happen all that often.

FWIW I know people/friends who say the most horrible things to their kids at times, in front of others, damaging horrible stuff I would NEVER say to or about my kids, and personally feel it is more damaging than a tap on the bum that is then apologised for. I would never judge them though, never say anything about their parenting and feel that we are all dealing with our kids in the best way we see fit. Again I know some see little difference between smacking and abuse - I for one disagree and know others will disagree with me, lucky it's a free country