The life and trials of a (somewhat reformed) over - sharer!

Reading a certain author's inspirational parenting book "Dare to discipline", first edition from 1970. I must say I am enjoying it immensely. Here is a taste: "When should the toddler be subject to mild punishment? When he openly defies his parents commands... Even in these situations, however, all-out spankings are often not required to eliminate the response. A firm thump on the head or a rap on the fingers will convey the same message just as convincingly" WHAT? A firm thump on the head? Thanks God for later book editions... I am guessing the author has had a re-think since then!