For the most part I agree with you here phorbesie. And the latter sentence is a good point. However, I'm sure depending on the home environment and temper of the parent that even this has the 'potential' to become a slippery slope. Granted, I was spanked, and for the most part those moments were not as impressionable on me as tone and words. And admittedly, intimidation can be very effective. I just don't think its the 'desired effect' I'm looking for with my kid. My son is young and pleasant enough that I have been able to hang onto most of my ideals. I still think that for the most part there are other ways of 'disciplining', teaching, or demonstrating to your child that there are real consequences to actions. For me, its more a matter of how I want to approach my child, and the energy I try to promote in the home. I'd like to think that I don't have to scare my kid into respecting me. I know he will no doubt increasingly push my limits as he grows older, and it will be interesting to see how I respond to that challenge. I hope that I can stick to my intentions. But I think its safe to say he'll likely have some sort of issues due to the range of mistakes I'll no doubt make along the way. I just hope they manifest positively, at least to some extent.