The world of parenting is complex and often contentious, with different approaches and philosophies on how to raise well-rounded and respectful children. Recently, singer Kelly Clarkson found herself at the center of heated debate when she openly admitted that she uses spanking as a form of discipline for her children. The revelation sparked strong public reactions, with some accusing her of child abuse, while others defended her right to choose her parenting methods.
In an interview with Today, mother-of-four Kelly Clarkson opened up about her parenting journey, including her take on discipline. She admitted she is “not above” using spanking as a disciplinary measure when her children misbehave, a practice not everyone agrees with.
However, when talking about hitting her 3-year-old daughter, the “American Idol” winner made it clear: “And I don’t mean hit her hard, I just mean spank her.”
The mother said, “I warn her.” I say, “Hey, if you don’t stop now, I’m going to spank your ass – like it’s funny.”
Arguing that she was disciplined in the same way as a child, Clarkson defended her decision to slap her daughter.
“My parents spanked me, but I’ve been doing well in life and I feel good about it,” she noted.
“So that’s a problematic thing when you’re out in public,” Clarkson continued, “since then people are like, you know, they think it’s horrible or something. I don’t mind getting spanked though. Being from the South, you guys get spanked. If I ever found myself in the principal’s office, my mother would call the administrator and give her permission to spank me. I consider myself a rich and well-rounded person, so I think it’s okay.
Many readers responded to Clarkson’s revelation, with some disagreeing that the spanking was necessary, according to CafeMom.
One reader said, “I’m a single mom with 3 boys.” Because I trained my children to be polite, I never spanked them. Now that they’re all teenagers. A/B students, athletes, and incredibly responsible, respectful individuals. The only thing hitting a child teaches them is that it’s okay to hit someone when you’re angry or frustrated.
“Spanking gives kids the idea that hitting is acceptable!” Added another Facebook user. “In thirty years of working with children, I have noticed that when they go to school, they try to solve problems. Once this way of teaching is established, it is difficult to change.
After her admission that she spanked her children, some people accused the Grammy Award-winning singer of child abuse, but others expressed support for her parenting style.
Good for her, another reader commented: “Parents don’t discipline their kids these days, and that’s why there’s a bunch of entitled brats running around the world who think they can get away with anything.” He clearly understands the difference between discipline and abuse; this is another problem that has arisen in the company.
Kelly Clarkson’s revelation about her parenting choices reignited this ongoing conversation and highlighted the diversity of perspectives on child-rearing practices. It also serves as a reminder that parenting is a deeply personal journey and what works for one family may not work for another. Ultimately, parents must make informed decisions about discipline based on their own values, beliefs, and the well-being of their children.
In the midst of this debate, it is essential to foster an open and respectful dialogue that allows for diverse perspectives while prioritizing children’s safety and emotional development. Kelly Clarkson’s willingness to share her experiences, no matter how controversial, has sparked discussions that can help parents navigate the difficult terrain of disciplining and raising children in today’s complex world.