With my kids, we spank and started at a very young age. Not very often, but we give a well timed whack to the bum when it counts, and believe me, it is very effective.
I've seen parents absolutely ruin kids though by spanking at every opportunity, to make up for horrible parenting and a kids needs not being fulfilled. I've seen 2 year old kids in turn, punch their moms in the face, which starts a cycle of abuse between parents/kids. Watching some parents interact, or not interact with their young kids can be painful.
