Something to keep in mind when a child is spanked they are more likely crying because of nerves or the shock of the spanking verses the actual spanking itself. Being in a little headspace is one of the best ways to get tears from a spanking. That being said being in the headspace of a little child will bring out that fear when you hear the words “Come over here little one we need to talk” I have had a few boys and one girl who when instructed to come over to me or see me coming towards them with a paddle immediately burst into tears. Getting into little space is an entirely different topic but once the spankee is in such a place they become more vulnerable which requires a SAFE and CARING adult figure. Another way and common for my spankees would be to get into their little space and come back to that feeling of being a child. Getting spanked is a release in other ways than simply crying its a way to help take your mind off those life events that are getting to you. and they are looking for a reason to cry and spanking is the perfect outlet. First and most common are life events that have taken their toll on a spankee ie breakup, loss, failure, etc. There are a few ways to get into the “headspace” for tears. You said the magic word “cathartic” yes getting a spanking is very much cathartic even in simple play many if not most or all spankees feel a sense of release after the spanking is finished.