Kelly Clarkson, known for hits like “Because Of You” and “Since U Been Gone,” is under fire for her controversial parenting views. The pop star, who has sold over 25 million albums globally, revealed in a 2018 interview that she occasionally spanks her children as a disciplinary measure. She explained, “I’m not above a spanking… My parents spanked me, and I did fine in life.”
While some fans defended her approach, arguing it’s a cultural norm or effective discipline, many criticized her comments. One person on X (formerly Twitter) said, “You can’t hit someone and then teach them that hitting is wrong.” Others shared how being spanked as children left them traumatized.
Clarkson, who shares two children with ex-husband Brandon Blackstock, clarified that she warns her kids before spanking and views it as a last resort. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly opposes spanking, citing evidence it increases aggression in children and can harm brain development. Despite backlash, Clarkson remains focused on her career and parenting, often discussing the challenges of balancing both.
