I used to wish my parents WOULD spank me instead of what they did do. I got "talked to", and they would tag team it. An infraction could result in a two hour, three hour, or even longer harangue that didn't leave me particularly remorseful, but did give me the ability to look like I was paying attention while I was a million miles away in my head. I'll admit, that's been useful. The worst part was when I thought they'd finally run out of things to say. After 15-20 minutes of silence, I'd start to slip away and my Mom would snap at me, and it would all start over again. I really envied the kids who got a quick shouting, a couple of swats, and were expected to mend their ways.