It is very telling how we sanitise language to 'smacking' and 'tapping'
instead of 'hitting' or 'slapping'. We would not condone this behaviour between adults, and yet an adult choosing to hit a child is regarded as an acceptable choice by some.
Smacking is never promoted at parenting groups. Instead there are methods such as distraction and positive reinforcement. Not all parents who use physical punishment are poor parents, but it is a poor parenting strategy.
It is an ineffective form of behaviour management and will only lead to more aggression.
Parents need to aim to be positive role models. I want my own children to be creative, resourceful, thinking individuals. I don't want to train them, I want them to comply with me because they want to. They are developing skills as social partners.
Not to smack is the more challenging choice. It is about behaviour management, and not punishment and control. There is a distinct difference.
Gillian Fox, Yeovil, Somerset
