It's an interesting debate for sure; not that I am being an advocate for any form of physical punishment (tap on the hand or whatever)...but it could be argued that a loud voice (yelling) is just as damaging? It's all about what choices you make for your family, your children. I can honestly say that none of my children have ever been spanked in any way whatsoever..but boy it was a huge challenge with my last son (now 3) to get him not to hit (go figure?!). And I admit it; I would get so frustrated a spank of the bum did enter my mind...just didn't go there.