By Hja van Tobruk
After observation of the advertisement in your newspaper (The Ad Council, Page 11, April 1), I decided to write this short note.
“Sparing the rod” does spoil the child. A psychologist created a theoretical position on that subject to expand parenting procedures. Yes, theoretical. It developed into a new method of achieving an ‘end’ result. My grandmother taught me that, “If something is not broke, do not fix it.” Their ‘label’ is confusion. To chastise a child is forcing the child’s attention to consequences. Today’s system does not accomplish that particular end result. Take a look around the society today.
This subject would be very interesting during a debate, with or without an audience. Bottom line — normal, physical punishment is not abuse, when done properly. Spankings are not the same as using a burning iron is it? And, most times, when overheard, from my mouth by others, it becomes an interesting conversation.
Originally published in the Santa Monica Daily Press print edition on April 9, 2008. Read the original PDF.