Every age and degree of understanding should have its proper measure of discipline. With regard to boys and adolescents, therefore, or those who cannot understand the seriousness of the penalty of excommunication, whenever such as these are delinquent let them be subjected to severe fasts or brought to terms by harsh beatings, that they may be cured.

I was never beaten. I was seldom spanked, perhaps twice prior to age six.

I did not beat our two children or assign "severe fasts."

There were occasional stern tones, and firm grasps, and -- no doubt -- a kind of intimidation.

But mostly there was an effort to model, explain, listen, and discuss.

None of us are great reprobates.

Above is Benedict beating a Monk as part of an exorcism ritual.