Whoohoo! The only member of the realms (so far) to take up the additional challenge. You did a great job of using direct dialogue in a scene that didn't really require any. So glad you've learned something and now have more skills to use in your already beautiful writing. You've got some great metaphors and descriptive language that make us feel the scene and his fear.

As for terrorizing children, yes, that is how you would do it! And no, as a parent I strive for the exact opposite of that, though I know some parents who think that sort of thing is fun. You captured their energy perfectly with the callus step-dad's dialogue! Anyway I hope their children get the therapy they need and are able to become functioning adults.