Ddzx, Free Will and Koala Joe. My money says you do not have kids.
I have twins. A boy and a girl. Used to smack them when they were smaller. Not very often as they were quick learners. I can not ever remember having to disciple them when we went out for dinner or to friends and families homes. Actually people always remarked how good natured, respectful and polite they are.
Tonight they had their school awards night. My daughter received a gold award for sport. My son received his Vice Captain jacket for next year and also received the Commonwealth Parliamentry Award which is given to the top student in each year.
Did they turn out to be bullies? Quite the opposite. They will step in and help diffuse a situation if they see another student or child being picked on.
On the other hand I have seen parents who do not believe in smacking their kids. What fun it is to see a temper tantrum last 45 minutes while the parents blame each other. Or the parents banning them from sports or other things which does not compute in the long run.
All kids need that bit of fear when they are young. It makes them better people.
