Prov.23:13-14

[Seth]

I think alot of valid alternative interpretations have been presented. So I'll just mention as a supplement that research has shown spanking to be inneffective. Some of my worst childhood memories are of being spanked, memories I'd like to forget. Dog trainers say never to beat your dogs because it actually makes them aggressive. I know humans are smarter than dogs but the Bible does compare us to beasts. We have many of the same carnal instincts. Severe beatings can also lead to identity/sexual confusion.

My daughter is headstrong and emotional. But I've never laid a hand on her. She's gotten a verbal rod, sure. But we also lavish her with positive feedback so that she has a desire to please us rather than disappoint us. The point we learned early from Supernanny on TV was to be consistent. Time out fails when it's not employed consistently and the child knows you may or may not follow through.

Love is the best discipline.

[Seth]

Children chase approval like a drug. Withholding approval, like too many parents do, I think isnthe biggest setback to discipline. Make them WANT to please you.