Sounds like the kid didn't need an "A** kicking*. He was troubled by his wacky mother and strange living arrangement. His sister was tragically killed and it put him over the edge.
Don't think a beating would help.
I agree ... a mental mess, and probably using drugs, as well. Sometimes it doesn't seem that hippies are really hurting anyone, but that's obviously not the case here.
Do you think the CHILD was being disciplined AT ALL? Yes, his sister dying "put him over the edge", but Mom felt the need to let him "Have some space" and look where that got him.