Spanking as a form of child discipline has become an increasingly debated topic, especially among parenting experts and health professionals. The American Academy of Pediatrics has firmly concluded that spanking is both ineffective and potentially harmful, warning that it can lead to increased aggression, antisocial behavior, and mental health issues in children. Despite this, some parents continue to defend the practice, believing it plays a positive role in setting boundaries and correcting behavior.
One such parent is singer and television personality Kelly Clarkson. In a 2019 radio interview, Clarkson openly discussed her stance on spanking, saying she is “not above spanking” when it comes to disciplining her two children, River Rose, now 8, and Remy, 6. Clarkson clarified that she does not hit hard but rather uses a light spanking to correct behavior. She explained that spanking was part of how she was raised in Texas and that she sees no harm in it.
“My parents spanked me, I did fine in life, and I feel fine about it,” she said. Clarkson even recalled how her mother would call the school principal to give permission to spank her if needed. She described herself as “a well-rounded individual with a lot of character,” suggesting that the discipline style worked for her growing up.
Clarkson, who recently earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and remains widely admired for her music and television career, acknowledged that her parenting approach can be controversial, especially when in public. She admitted it can be tricky because people might judge her actions, but she stands by her belief in spanking. She also noted that she warns her children before spanking, giving them a chance to change their behavior. According to Clarkson, this approach has helped reduce behavioral issues over time.
