Bipolar disorder claims victims either by genetics or by force; that is through the violation of a child’s space and safety at a young age. Make no mistake, corporal punishment is abuse and has hurt children raised in this kind of environment. For the rest of their lives, they live dodging land mines of insecurity, sleeplessness, anxiety, and self-loathing. The only way to raise a healthy child is through gentle parenting-a concept unfamiliar to most American parents. Hitting and spanking seemed to have worked for them, but it does not make it safe for a child’s mental development. ~ E. M. Duesel