Crazy thread! I don't care if your physically punishing your child or verbally punishing your child, if you are doing it when you are still angry, or the emotions are running high you are walking a thin line. Almost all of the punishment I have dealt to my children that I regret happened when I did not give enough time for everyone to cool down. I find with my kids & most kids I know, the lesson is learned better when there is no tears or yelling. Besides, it's punishment in itself if you tell your child to go sit somewhere while you decide his fate!