Corporal punishment of minors in the United States, meaning the infliction of physical pain or discomfort by parents or other adult guardians, including in some cases school officials, for purposes of punishing unacceptable behavior, is subject to varying legal limits, depending on the state. Minor children in the United States commonly experience some form of corporal punishment, such as spanking or paddling. Despite opposition from medical and social-services professionals, as of 2016 the spanking of children is legal in all states and as of 2014 most people still believe it is acceptable provided it does not involve implements. Corporal punishment is usually considered distinct from illegal child abuse, although the distinction can often be vague.