For every action, there is an equal an opposite reaction.  Sometimes that reaction is a consequence we would prefer to avoid.  

When our children are forced to face the consequences of their poor choices, they will quickly learn to modify their behavior to avoid those consequences.  Parents who threaten consequences, but do not follow through, or parents who feel guilty and so do not allow their children to experience any uncomfortable consequences are not doing their children any favors.  

Call it tough love, but letting our kids face the reality of consequences will ultimately produce mature, charactered children.  Not only that, it will restore a modicum of peace to our homes.  Isn't that what we all want anyway?