[DieHard the Hunter]

> What’s the difference between your hand and any other tool?

My hand is attached to me, and it provides direct bio-feedback on the amount of force being applied. Any other tool or weapon (eg belt, switch, stick, wooden spoon, whip, cane, &tc) does not provide this bio-feedback and is therefore dangerous.

> Do you really think the child (or animal) cares what they are getting hit with?

I suspect the child would rather not be hit with anything — and if the child doesn’t misbehave then it certainly never shall. And I suspect the child would far rather be struck with the hand (you know, the hand with built-in bio-feedback to make sure it doesn’t strike too hard) than with a tool or weapon like a belt or cane.

[TNdandelion]

I've been a stay at home mother for the last 12 years to both of my children. You are correct, it is a matter of opinion and I would probably add parental experience. Spanking is the easy way out and any lesson that can children learn from it is extremely limited.

Ah...so if it hurts YOUR hand, you know you're hitting too hard. Again, spanking is a tool used by parents with limited skills and probably limited time. Good luck with it.