Q: By law is spanking a child considered physically child abuse if their are no bleeding swelling bruising ?
I was spanked as a child which i agree can be a discipline tactic that can work but how would I know if it was also abuse? I don’t want to accuse if it wasn’t the case.
A:
A parent, step parent (or someone taking that role like a guardian or babysitter) can spank a child under 18 when and to the degree the actor reasonably believes the force is necessary to discipline the child or to safeguard or promote his welfare. An educator can spank a student when and to the degree the actor reasonably believes the force is necessary to further the [education] or to maintain discipline in a group.
However, just because something is legal does not mean it can't be emotionally damaging. There are a lot of terrible behaviors that are not against the law. The emotional damage we suffer as children can lead us to make poor decisions as adults and can hamper your attempts to reach your fullest potential. Take it seriously even if it was not a crime. Hire a counselor or therapist or life coach. A professional can help you in ways you can't yet imagine.
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