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