Many times the punishment is out of proportion to the offence. The punishment is either too harsh - or the offense is ignored allowing upheaval and anger to grow. Because the parent is inconsistent - the child does not know for sure what the rules nor repercussions are and that is not fair. Discipline is calm. The discipline process involves NO yelling, harsh words or actions.
Child abuse is volatile .
Abuse involves raised voices, meaningless threats followed by explosions of anger and out of control punishment. Our children deserve better. HOPE for everyone. Through prayer and the supernatural power of God abusive patterns CAN be broken and replaced by loving discipline. Many have a mix of discipline and abuse.