Ch.3 Q#2

So this is a very hot debate that has been going on for a long time about the discipline of children, and how it is used. To me personally and after taking a look through the chapter, I think that there is two fine lines between discipline and abuse, and to me it is simple. The use of discipline, is to teach a lesson, and or prove a point to a child so that they learn not to make that same mistake again. Now abuse is the intention to hurt a child, and not only hurting but in many cases causes mental scars. I think that the point when parents over step and are actually abusing their children, is when they feel that they need to beat a point into their child. I as a child was disciplined by being spanked and things of that nature, but I did learn what I did wrong. I also had things taken away and was grounded, so there are alternatives. In the field that I work in, which is child care, I feel there are 2 things that distinguish harsh punishment, and I think its looking to cause pain, which was my first, and the second which is hitting a child with a closed fist. What can also be mentioned, is mental and emotional abuse as well. Some parents don't realize how strong their words are and how they can long term damage a child, and I think the over stepping their is when they have an intent to make things personal. Which no parent should do.