Asadah Kirkland, Author of "Beating Black Kids" Helps Parents Discuss Spanking

"Spare the rod, spoil the child" is the Biblical quote commonly used to justify the use of corporal punishment. But the author of "Beating Black Kids", sister Asadah Kirkland, explains some things that may help parents re-think that old time philosophy. What are we really teaching our children when we hit them? What are we saying about ourselves? What behavior will we see them manifest later on in life as a result of being hit as a child as a behavior control technique?  And what happens when parents disagree about the use of corporal punishment? Is the one who hits seen as the "bad guy?"  Is the one who doesn't hit seen as "weak?" When does "spanking" become "child abuse?" Who decides when punishment is too harsh? How should parents discuss this issue and what should they base their decisions on? Is disagreement about spanking or hitting children a deal breaker for couples who are considering marriage? Should it be?