The Discipline Of The Whip

August 3rd, 2012
07:25 PM ET



.. and Sweet Gary Tuchman report.

Tonight [Last Night] on AC360: Ungodly Discipline

Some parents, school administrators, and church leaders across the country believe it’s necessary to physically discipline children in their care. CNN’s Gary Tuchman spoke with those who do it because, they say, they’re acting in the name of God.

The AC360° investigation began when parents of 7-year-old Lydia Shatz pleaded guilty, and were sent to prison, after their young adopted daughter was beaten to death. They claim they were following teachings in a book by Michael Pearl. Pearl co-authored “To Train Up a Child” with his wife as a guide for parents on raising their children in accordance with the Bible.

Tuchman spoke with the Pearls who explain their method of spanking, and say they’re not to blame for Lydia’s untimely death. To demonstrate the technique and force that’s used, Mr. Pearl hits Tuchman during the interview.

Also in the program, former students of a religious boarding school in Montana accuse the pastor and school leaders of abuse, including choking. The owner of Pinehaven Christian Children’s Ranch, Bob Larsson, says his mission is to impart a love for God to the students. The state government has no oversight of religious institutions, which you’ll learn more about in tonight’s report.

And an unlikely sight in Oakland, California has made headlines in recent years: Children begging strangers for money. The students attend St. Andrew Missionary Baptist Church School, and they ask for donations because the Reverend in charge of the school wants them to raise funds. The questionable practice is only part of the story; one mother is alleging abuse.

Join us tonight at 8 and 10 p.m. ET for “Ungodly Discipline,” and let us know what you think in a comment or on Twitter @AC360 and @AndersonCooper.