Parsing semantics isn't changing my point (we aren't talking about carrying a child gently out of a public place if they throw a fit - we're talking about striking them as a form of correction). Replace the word "assault" with "non-defensive and non-accidental force used to correct behavior" if you like. Point stands. You guys are still rationalizing the hell out of it. If you aren't defending your child by jerking them back from a street before they walk in front of a car, then it is wrong to be jerking them about by the arm (unless accidental, of course). That's why I said DEFENSE...and you can defend them from themselves if they are going to harm themselves via ignorance. Parents aren't tyrants for this...they are tyrants for striking children or humiliating them or threatening them when it isn't a defensive reasoning, and is instead trying to be used as a corrective measure (which just teaches them bullying and violent dispute resolution).
And last I checked, if a child is kicking and screaming, but is at the age of reason, then the parent failed in points before this via a lack of preparation. When not in public, I suggest hovering over them and waiting it out (do NOT taunt them). When in public, I suggest gently carrying them out of the place...and scolding yourself for something you've done to program them to think this is a good way to act when they want their way. I know too many parents using peaceful parenting techniques (or have previously, and now have raised their kids to adults) who faced this so rarely it isn't even worth discussing. Kids act that way based on how you programmed them. Do you yell in front of them at your wife? Do you throw fits of rage? Does your wife? Does some person you expose the child to, like a babysitter or family member? Just as empathy is a learned behavior, so is throwing a fit with any regularity.
And of course special needs kids require special attention and may do things we don't like, but striking them isn't the answer either.