Originally Posted by Sunchimes:
Funny true story: Mom said that I started throwing some pretty massive tantrums about 2. One day, she picked me up and tanned my britches (it was nearly 60 years ago, she was allowed). 
According to her, the next time I threw myself in the floor to have a tantrum, I sat there a minute then sighed and said, "It's just not worth it," got up and went about my day. She said it didn't stop tantrums, but they were never as frequent or long after that. 
Proof that a firm enough consequence DOES make an impact and changes a child's behavior.
This is what I believe is wrong with parenting styles today...not enough FIRM consequences for negative behaviors.
NOT saying all kids should be spanked....just saying that follow through and a FIRM consequence makes ALL the difference in whether a behavior will be repeated or not.