Have you ever been spanked as a child? The topic of spanking as a disciplinary method has been widely debated, with many
experts arguing that it is neither effective nor beneficial in the long run. The American Academy of Pediatrics has strongly
opposed corporal punishment, citing research that links it to negative behavioral and emotional outcomes. Despite these
concerns, some parents continue to defend spanking, seeing it as a reasonable and necessary form of discipline.
Among those who have openly shared their perspective on this issue is singer, songwriter, and television personality Kelly
Clarkson. The former American Idol winner and celebrated talk show host has been candid about her parenting approach,
which includes occasional spanking when she deems it necessary.
During a radio interview in 2019, Clarkson explained her stance, revealing that she does not oppose spanking her children
when it comes to maintaining discipline. As a mother of two—her daughter, River Rose, now 8, and her son, Remy, now 6—
Kelly made it clear that she is not against this form of discipline.
“I’m not above spanking,” she admitted. “I don’t mean hitting her hard or anything like that. I just mean a little spanking, just
enough to make a point.”
Clarkson’s approach to discipline stems from her own upbringing. Having grown up in Texas, she was raised with spanking as a
common practice, and she believes it played a role in shaping her into the person she is today.
“My parents used to spank me, and I turned out just fine,” she shared. “Being from the South, it’s pretty common for us to get
spanked. If I ever found myself in trouble at school, my mom would even give permission for a spanking. I consider myself a
well-rounded individual with strong character, so I believe it was all for the best.”