Sorry gentlemen I know this is a men's focus group but the topic hits a nerve with me. I never understood how beating a small child could ever teach a lesson or encourage good behavior. It has been told to me that parents hit because that is how they were raised or they didn't know any better! These statements anger me because what can a child possibly do to deserve beatings by a belt or strikings across the face? I am sorry that you have experienced this as well. It does lead to depression, anxiety and low self esteem. iT also may drive the child to look for love and acceptance from other abusers.The scars of spankings, beatings, are long lasting. As for becoming homosexual because of it I don't think there is a correlation. ((thecrazylife))