The difference I see is in the parents who don’t recognize that they need to teach their kids the difference between a reprimand and the concept that it’s “ok to hit”. As it’s not ok. A fine line, and one that clearly all people cannot negotiate.

In schools…well, we grew up with the fear of getting sent to the office for a paddling. Or heck, the teachers could do it in the classroom. The rules were clear, and those who broke the rules were punished. Violence towards adults was simply NOT tolerated. The discipline in schools now is appalling. Some of it is down to the teachers not being able to dole out appropriate punishments (smacking not included), and them not having the support of the administration if a kid is disruptive. And a lot of it is down to the parents. Teachers shouldn’t have to teach their students basic manners… That is the job of parents, be it in a religious sense, or just plain human kindness.