Good Morning Britain sparked divide after it was discussed whether it is ever acceptable to smack a child. The debate was held after a child education expert said he thinks banning smacking would be a mistake after a leading group of children's doctors called for the government to make it illegal in England. Joining Ed Balls and Kate Garraway on Thursday's (March 13) edition of the ITV programme was writer and broadcaster Sally Jones, who believes smacking can be used as a last resort, and Lewis Oakley, who is completely against the concept.
The debate certainly got viewers talking as they flocked to social media to share their thoughts, with one admitting the thought made them "feel sick". One wrote: "I used to smack my son (now 30) when he was little, but now I feel completely different and no longer feel it appropriate. In fact, it makes me feel sick.
And I wouldn’t dream of smacking my granddaughter. However, I do believe in discipline, it’s necessary for development." A second fumed: "Not happy with #GMB this morning - had to turn my telly off over that child smacking bit.
Turns my stomach to think of people hurting their kids." Another echoed: "This man is talking sense. These older lot ain’t got a clue.
You don’t NEED to hit your kids. Ffs!" A fourth said: "It is not ok. Fear of a parent is not respect of a parent.
I spent most of my childhood in fear and suppressed so much due to the consequence being a smack. I have two children and I want them to feel free t.