spanking

I'm not sure how this came to me, but are there any parents who still do this? I know that there are. I've heard lame reasons why it's not abuse and that's all crap. "Spanking". Just call it what it is - abuse. It's beating someone who is smaller. It doesn't teach anything other than fear. I'm all for children learning to respect others, especially their parents. But hitting and the potential of hitting a child is nothing but abuse. And it will never teach respect. If it is discipline the abuser is looking for, there are other ways, and ways that will actually work. Children don't need "spanked". They need love and compassion and patience, and yes, discipline. Spanking is not parenting. It is ignorant and fear-based and cowardly and it is abuse. Hug your child, teach them by example, show them respect and expect it in return. A child is the greatest thing that will ever happen to a parent. Respect and nurture that. Pick on someone your own size.