This article is ridiculous. I was spanked as a child and also spanked my children of whom are all grown now. I have never been violent with anyone or anything and my three kids are the same. None of them would hurt a fly and have all grown into very well rounded strong successful and loving adults with no mental problems. As a matter of fact, my children were some of the most well behaved children when they were younger. The ones that were sitting in time out were the ones running around like uncontrollable brats. Just because someone spanks their children as a form of discipline does not mean they are voilently abusing them. My children and i knew that if we did something we were not suppose to do, that would be the circumstance and therefore, it stopped me and my children from repeat episodes. I agree that sometimes a little time out can calm them down and that's all it takes, but really, come on, is that child really gonna not do it again because he's so afraid that he'll have to sit in a chair for 5 minutes? Get real! I know that there is a lot of abuse in this world between parents and children, but to lump us all into one category would be like saying anyone who is black is a criminal or anyone who collects wellfare is lazy. Each person's situation is different and for me this form of punishment works well. I don't spank when i am angry. That is a number one rule. But i do spank and it works very well for me. I also follow up with an explanation about why mommy had to spank them once the situation is all over and make them understand that if it happens again, they will get spanked again so that they know what to expect. I love my children and i feel like being a mommy has been my greatest accomplishment and the one thing i am most proud of.