i was spanked and looking back have no probs with it. we live in an era of over prescribing and over analyzing and under punishing. even though i was spanked and belted, i've never laid a hand on anyone in my life, so it doesn't translate to violence begets violence for me. btw, there is a time and place for violence in life. like when someone assaults you, breaks into your home, or tries to hurt someone you care about. or you could give that assaulter a good talking to, i suppose.