[Lil Sis]

Originally Posted by Jennxling

The word cracks me up.


I'd have to say, spanking doesn't teach a child anything...except that it is okay to be violent...I was raised by my grandmother and I used to get spanked often with a wood back scratcher. Sometimes I got spanked until I bled (not a lot though)...and I honestly think there are more productive disciplining methods. When I have kids in the future, I really don't want to spank my children. I was always taught to appreciate adults punishing you because if they don't punish (criticize/ verbally abuse) you, then they don't care about you.

That is what I mean by the cycle of abuse being broken. Many raise their children how they were raise and have been taught that punishment equals love NO NO NO... Discipline equals love. I do believe it takes more effort and "love" to discipline a child than it does to let them have their way and/or to punish.
Also I am so glad you put the verbally abuse and criticize in that category.
It is as harmful as physical abuse (hitting with the intent to hurt or excessive "odd" restrictions -- such as withholding food or confinement)
I am so glad you see that.. and you will be a better parent because of that.