OK folks, it was just seeing things from a different angle and no I wouldn't call the authorities if I were on the street I'd probably go over and find out a bit more about the situation to see if I could help.

If this picture is how it is being perceived, which is what most believe on this forum then no I don't think that this is a form of abuse, however hitting a child is another matter.
There's a quick clout around the ears to stop a child running in the road and maybe being killed, which if you took time to explain why, the child could be dead and then there's a beating which is a definite NO, should I be witness to that then firstly I would interviene secondly I would report to the authorities.

I agree with what you say about kids stealing to impress it happens all the time where I work, if they don't do it the big lads outside threaten to beat them up.

Yes of course his Mum gives him a big hug, no matter what it's your child and you love them it doesn't matter what their faults are you'll always be there for them.

It amazes me how much we can get from one picture and if indeed we are correct,of course it could all be completely wrong, I don't know the origin of this picture only that it's been posted here...

Was it in one of the newspapers or on TV?

Did someone pass by and happen to have a camera handy ?

Was this picture taken deliberately knowing that it would be a posting here... just to read peoples reactions? I don't know...

Initially all that I was saying was that things aren't always how they first appear,
In this case it seems majority rules OK

Unless you know different!!