The right to freedom from cruel and unusual punishment is a constitutional right. I have the right to be treated fairly and nicely. I have the right not to be hurt or tortured just because of my special needs, including the right to not be punished physically when I make a bad choice.  I have the right to be treated like a first-class citizen that I am. People with special needs have not always been treated nicely and regarded as equal citizens. It is my responsibility to remember this and be sure to treat everyone the way I want to be treated. Just as I don't want anyone to be mean to me, I shouldn't want to be mean to anyone else.