Spanking a child is not against the law in most places. However, parents who use it in their homes are accused of child abuse. The Chicago Tribune published an article urging readers to report child abuse as soon as they become aware of it. In the article “Child abuse in plain View” the author describes spanking as a type of abuse that takes place behind closed doors (“Child abuse in plain View”). Like most critics of corporal punishment, the author tries to link spanking to abuse. The author's concern about abuse is well-founded. Abuse must be reported immediately. However, any attempt to define spanking as abuse is wrong. Spanking a child is not abuse. It is an effective way of disciplining that helps guide the child to become a respectful and responsible person. Critics of spanking need to understand that spanking and abuse are not the same thing. Spanking is a rapid squat on the buttock that causes temporary pain. Child abuse is physical injury such as hitting, kicking, or punching a child with cruel intent. Psychiatrist William Glasser makes a distinction between the two. Glasser explains, “Discipline is directed at the questionable behavior, and the child will accept the consequences without resentment.” Instead, he defined punishment as “A direct response to the individual” (qtd. in Dobson 96). Spanking leaves room for forgiveness and reconciliation. The abuse comes from a place of hostility. It is harsh and leaves little room for forgiveness or reconciliation. Yes, spanking may cause brief discomfort, but it is not the same as hitting, punching, or kicking a child. The Chicago Tribune writer wrote: "Make no mistake: Hitting a child hurts, not just physically, but psychologically" ("Child Abuse in Plain Sight")... center of paper... ginning of humanity. It worked then and it works now. Critics have decided to redefine spanking as abuse. They would like everyone to believe the propaganda. The truth is, however, that spanking has its benefits in the long term. Parents can expect the outcome to be a respectful, well-behaved adult. Parents should decide whether they want to spank their children; not society's disciplinary choice. The key thing to remember when it comes to discipline is to discipline for the child's sake. Never spank a child when he or she is angry. Explain to the child why spanking is necessary. In this way the child will feel loved and understand reconciliation (Dobson). The child will not have feelings of resentment. When parents follow these steps, discipline will never be abusive.