And just in general, negative reinforcement only really encouraged people to do enough to not have that consequence happen to them. It doesn't matter if the consequence is no more Barney, no going out on saturday night, or a beating. I think positive reinforcement works a whole lot better. Give the kid something to try and achieve, and a reward if they do so.

Hell, this applies throughout life as well. At my job, I can slack off if I want to, and I'll still get my perfectly reasonable salary. But if I hustle for those 8 hours a day and make a bunch of deals I get thousands of dollars more per month in commission on those deals. I like money, so I do my damndest to book as many deals as I possibly can.

Back to kids. I'm a hands-off type of guy with kids. As far as I'm concerned they can do what they want as long as they're not endangering themselves or others. And once they get even a little past being toddlers, they can take on plenty of decision making for themselves if only given the opportunity. They don't need to be treated like adults, just not like most people treat children.

I don't really expect too many folk to agree with me, it's an unconventional philosophy. Which is why I've said a few times now, if you want to hit your kids, whatever. I'm not going to stop you nor am I going to try. Hopefully I've at least explained my own line of reasoning. If y'all still want to ram it down my throat how I'm wrong, whatever.