Physical discipline is only part of the equation. I would certainly slap my possible future kids upside the head for being brats, just as likely I'd dock their allowance, deny them dessert, make them do chores, push-ups, etc. Whatever seems appropriate. The one that was always good for a smack when I was young was talking back. Immediate and swift retribution lol.
And you take your punishment, whatever it is, physical or not, because.... "Stop crying or I'll give you something to cry about." (mom loved that one)
I remember another favorite tactic was for table manners. If I didn't use silverware correctly or spoke out of turn I would get a swift kick under the table in the shin. Those pointed high heels can hurt! If you made a peep about the sudden pain that had just been delivered you could expect another one twice as bad as the first lol.
When I'd get detentions at school, the staying after would make me miss the bus. Instead of getting picked up I had to walk home. It was a very long walk.
These were not overtly cruel, random, or useless punishments at all. It was always clear how I was expected to conduct myself.
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