Parenting, especially when it comes to disciplining children, remains a deeply personal and often controversial subject. One of the most debated methods of discipline is spanking, with opinions divided across cultural, societal, and personal lines. While some parents view it as an effective tool to teach children boundaries, others argue that it can lead to long-term psychological harm. Recently, Kelly Clarkson, the beloved singer, songwriter, and television personality, reignited this debate when she openly discussed her views on spanking during a 2019 radio interview.

Kelly Clarkson, a mother to two young children—River Rose, 8, and Remy, 6—has long been in the public eye, and her parenting choices have often sparked discussion. In the interview, Clarkson revealed that she wasn’t opposed to spanking her children if they misbehave. She clarified that she wasn’t advocating for physical abuse, but rather a “little spanking” as a corrective measure when necessary.

“I’m not above spanking,” Clarkson said in the interview. “I don’t mean hitting her hard. I just mean a little spanking.” Clarkson explained that this approach was part of her upbringing in Texas, where spanking was a common practice in many households. She emphasized that she felt her own experience with spanking had not caused her harm, and that it was part of what shaped her into the person she is today. “My parents spanked me, I did fine in life, and I feel fine about it,” Clarkson explained, defending her parenting style with a sense of humor and confidence.

Clarkson further elaborated on her childhood, recalling how her mother, when she got into trouble at school, would call the school principal and give permission for corporal punishment to be administered. “I’m from the South, y’all, so we get spankings,” she joked, offering a glimpse into the cultural context of her childhood. She argued that spanking didn’t negatively impact her development and pointed to her well-rounded personality as evidence of the positive outcomes of this type of discipline.

While Clarkson acknowledges that her stance may not align with the views of all parents, she stands firm in her belief that spanking can be an effective disciplinary tool when used appropriately. However, she is also mindful of the public scrutiny that comes with parenting in the spotlight. “It’s tricky when you’re out in public because people might think it’s wrong,” Clarkson admitted, acknowledging the judgment that parents often face for their discipline choices. Despite this, she remained steadfast in her belief that it’s important to follow through with discipline when necessary.

“I do believe in spanking, so you might catch me spanking my child at the zoo,” Clarkson said. She also made it clear that she does not spank impulsively. Instead, she ensures that her children understand the consequences before taking any action. “I’m like, ‘Hi, I’m going to spank you on your bottom if you don’t stop right now, this is ridiculous,’” she explained. Clarkson shared that this method had proven to be effective in curbing misbehavior, leading to fewer instances of her children acting out.

The conversation surrounding Clarkson’s comments about spanking sparked broader discussions about the appropriateness of this form of discipline and its potential effects on children. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has long spoken out against spanking, citing research that suggests physical discipline can lead to negative psychological outcomes, including increased aggression, antisocial behavior, and weakened parent-child relationships. The AAP advocates for non-violent forms of discipline, such as time-outs, verbal reprimands, and loss of privileges.

Despite these concerns, Clarkson maintains that spanking can be done responsibly and in moderation, without causing harm to children. She believes that parents should be trusted to determine the best way to raise their children, so long as their discipline is rooted in love, consistency, and respect. Clarkson’s perspective challenges the notion that all parenting practices must conform to a set of standardized rules, encouraging a more individualized approach to discipline.