Readers respond to Bloem mom abusing her child in shop

After reading about a Bloemfontein mom who punched her small child in a supermarket for allegedly taking sweets without her permission, many readers shared their shock and disbelief.

While many people think this mom should have been locked up and her children taken away, others – who possibly didn't read the article – felt children should be disciplined and often push parents to beat them. Others say there is absolutely no justifying beating a child and parents should not take their frustration and stress out on their children.

Here is a selection of your thoughts.

Get the authorities involved!

Was it really abuse or just a kid being punished?

The retail industry needs to make it easier for parents

To intervene or not to intervene...

@Parent24 I would try and intervene.

— Debbie Herbst (@Oogies001) February 8, 2017

@Parent24 @News24 Would have interfered immediately

— LauraLee (@LauraLee490) February 8, 2017

Kids ask for it?

Where's the video footage?

Some of us gawk at parents who have simply raised their voice in a shopping mall. What would you do if you saw a parent punching their child? Share your opinion and experience by emailing chatback@parent24.com and we may publish your story. Should you wish to remain anonymous, please let us know.