As a kid, living in a time and State where that was permitted, I found the idea so basically wrong that I made it perfectly clear that day would be my last day if required, as in no holds barred, do what it takes.
Looked that guy right in the eye, ready... told him it was not gonna happen.
It didn't, and I was the only one that it did not happen to.
Let's just say the events that followed after I made that statement were not pretty. But, I also must say I have not experienced that clarity and strength of resolve since.
7th grade. I was scared by it. What the whole scenario triggered. What I was capable of in that moment.
That person transferred to another school system shortly after.
We met again 20 some years later at a wedding reception. Of course we immediately got drinks and caught up. Both of us eager to revisit that time as different, and better people.
I was that serious problem kid, he remarked at how ill equipped the staff were at that time. Was a real mess.
Some laughs and a handshake later, both of us got some much needed closure.
I think when it comes down to basic physical means we have failed as people. It can work. Does sometimes. But there are costs, scars. Not physical ones so much.
But, when it does not work? I really do fear the state of mind I arrived at that day. Unnecessary too. What of others, their states of mind? What happens when they can't process it, or it builds up over repeated events?
Our talk healed both our scars amazingly well. I consider both of us lucky in that respect.
Edit: I had it super rough as a kid. Turned out fine after middle school though. Was a mess like I said. I did gain something high value. I can often reach troubled kids. I have been in very dark, scary places. And I, at times, had little to no meaningful help.
It was another person reached me. That is what does the real work, and it does not require beatings to accomplish.
It does require understanding. That is harder than a beating, but far more potent.