Maybe this is not something I should comment on but I will take a shot at the common sense approach of parenting, no matter whos child it is. If you are a step parent, you are still a parent ans should have all the bounaries of a parent and all the responsibilities. Especially if the child is in your home for any period of time. To me a step child should be given all the same things descipline, etc of a natural child because I would think you'd want them to feel the same, not different or special. I as a parent never believed in any form of corporal punishment, hitting, none at all but I was strict and expected my rules to be paid attention to. I think treating any child the way you would hope to be treated works, for children and adults....Hope this helps.