I am thinking that maybe it didn't "take".
I have my doubts about her mom "spanking" the kid. Spanking is meant to instruct. Beating a kid is not spanking, and does not instruct. No surprise it didn't "take".
I admire Tonya for ability to survive. She does what has to be done to survive, no self pity. She is a tough cookie, and not strung out on drugs, booze, or government welfare.
Oh it could have taken all too well.
My grandfather used to beat me once a week. Not because I did anything wrong but to remind me of what would happen if I did..........