...spoil the child. Growing up, I never feared my parents, I always feared the consequences of my actions, rendered by them. Never got into much trouble because of that and I'm thankful. Raised our children the same way. None of us are in prison. A spanking that leaves a little sting on the rear-end and "beating" are two totally separate things. There are so many things to be taken away from young adults as punishment, however one of the parents must be home to enforce the punishment or it will never work. That's usually not doable these days with most families being a two income family. Good Luck finding what punishment works for these families. and, glad they are safe.