November, 2001: This article by Debra Stang gives some concrete suggestions about what to do if you see someone hitting their child. Debra encourages everyone to take a stand against the culturally accepted practice of spanking and advices, “Use your voice — silence is consent.” Eleven suggestions are given including direct confrontation (works most effectively if you know the hitter), asking the manager of a business establishment to speak to the offender, maintaining eye contact at a safe distance from the hitter (makes them feel uncomfortable), stepping in to resolve the situation if you feel it has escalated (works if you know the parent) and many others. One can also call the police, though depending on the states, they may consider the issue, “just a spanking.” Many states, however, limit the definition of “spanking” to hitting on the buttocks, and consider it a crime to slap a child on the head or in the face, or twist their ear — which can easily cause deafness.
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