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I think the most damaging aspect of this dad's behaviour isn't so much that he is smacking the kids - but that it seems to be arbitrary and dependent on his mood more than the kids' behaviour. He seems to be lashing out and being cruel (verbally) in order to instil fear when he is in a bad mood- and then trying to win them over with treats and affection when he is in a good mood.
I am totally against physical punishment for children - but - it isn't necessarily in and of itself a damaging thing as long as the kid knows it comes from a position of love and is consistent (and also not over the top).
But it's a huge risk to take - because whilst lots of kids come through it understanding where their parent was coming from and respecting them, lots come through it having learnt that their parents are frightening and that the way to resolve issues is through violence.
@ Classic: tell me to sod off if you like :p but how do/did you feel about that?
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