I have six children (all now adults). I spanked them yet so rarely I can likely count it on one hand. I didn't use a belt, a switch, etc though that was common in my days. I remember when I was in 1st grade the principles office having paddles with different sized holes drilled through them.
There are abusive parents. There is no doubt of that, just like there are abusive people. I gave @sterlinluxan a more lengthy comment on here.
I am sorry you were beaten.
I have 2 children both grown my oldest has ADHD, ODD .& Aspergers I never needed to beat mine either. I am glad to say I am nothing like him at all.