Of course, al,
I think that, if administered once or twice, then the child won't need hitting harder and more in future. But the knowledge that a smack is a potential outcome should be enough to make them think twice before misbehaving.

It's much more effective than any "naughty step". As soon as the child realises that they can just get off the step, the parents' authority will evaporate.
( Thinker, Thu 24 Apr 2008, 13:12, Reply)