I think one has to differentiate between physical discipline and physical abuse, and there are some factors that differentiate the two.
For one abuse is done out of anger and in a state of mind where the disciplining parent is not in control of their mind and subsequently their judgement. A parent physically lashing out at their child violently out of anger is unacceptable. No exceptions.
Hwever their are instances where physical discipline, emphasis on the word discipline is acceptable, especially in very early childhood situations (toddlers) where its not easy to verbally communicate crucial messages that a child needs to understand relevant to how their actions affect their own safety. That being said, I think its safe to say that at least 95% of the physical discipline that is issued by parents is really abuse. The question is Does the parent have self control?, and more importantly are the actions done with the immediate intention of benefiting the child and the parents genuine concern for the child's well being? Most of the time, unfortunately, the answer to that question is "no".
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