That is very correct. As a switch where I was the sub (spankee), I never liked a dom who simply just hit for the sake of hitting. In my opinion, spankings are as much psychological as they are physical.
To me, this comes under respecting limits. Now that I am looking for a spankee (sub) for simple basic spanking play, I would always remember how well I was respected and treated.
I am sure my search will be a successful one!