How on EARTH do I deal with a three year old who just doesn't care...

[emkana]

naughty step - doesn't care
taking away toys - doesn't care
taking away other things - doesn't care
sticker chart - worked for about three days, then lost interest

Gaaaaaaaaaaah!

Oh dear, you sound at the end of your tether. Have you considered just giving up on the whole discipline thing altogether for abit, and instead going mad for cuddles and praise in a completely OTT way? It sounds stupid I know but has worked for me in difficult times to get us out of a situation that was very entrenched and unhappy. If punishment does not deter, I'd suggest it might be attention-seeking, you see.

I'm not sure I have ever met a 3 year old who does care! Mine never did at that age - I second sorrell's idea about going for positive reinforcement of good behaviour.

have you tried the book 'how to talk so kids will listen and listen so kids will talk' by faber mazlish? fabermazlish . i found this really helped turn things around.
x

My three year old is exactly he same. I find it really hard to discipline him as he is very strong willed and independent (which I love about him ). lots of hugs and ignoring the bad behaviour helps, or reactig in a way that they weren't expecting sometimes works too.
You are not alone!