David Beckham has once again sparked debate by kissing his seven-year-old daughter, Harper, on the lips at a public event. The moment, captured while they were watching England’s women’s football team play Norway in the World Cup quarter-finals, has drawn criticism from some who consider the gesture “inappropriate.”
This isn’t the first time Beckham has faced backlash for this affectionate display. TV presenter Piers Morgan previously described a similar video, shared by Victoria Beckham on Instagram, as “creepy.” The video showed David kissing Harper on the lips during a family boat trip in Miami. But is there really something troubling about a parent kissing their child on the lips, or is it simply a harmless expression of love?
The Independent sought opinions from parents, psychologists, and child-rearing experts, finding that most disagreed with Morgan’s perspective. Here’s what they had to say:
A Child’s Perspective on Affection
Dr. Victoria Khromova, a child and adolescent psychiatrist, explained that children Harper’s age don’t differentiate between parental affection and other types of affection. “A quick kiss on the lips is likely viewed by Harper as just another form of normal parental love,” she said.
The more significant question, Dr. Khromova noted, is when parents should help their children understand the difference between affection that’s appropriate within families and affection meant for romantic relationships. While there’s no universal answer, she suggested children should grasp these distinctions by puberty to help them navigate relationships effectively. However, societal norms and heightened awareness of boundary issues may lead parents to address these distinctions earlier.
Dr. Khromova also emphasized that such gestures are only appropriate within the parent-child relationship. “Most kids understand that kissing on the lips is reserved for close family members, like parents,” she added.
Potential Concerns and Benefits
Critics have pointed out that kissing a child on the lips could carry risks, including the potential spread of cavities, allergic reactions, or confusion about personal boundaries. However, many parents, including celebrities like David Beckham, see it as a natural way to express affection.
Beckham’s View on Affection
Beckham has consistently defended his affectionate gestures, emphasizing that it’s how he was raised. “I’m very affectionate with my kids. That’s how Victoria and I were brought up, and it’s how we raise our children,” he explained. “We want to show our kids love, and being affectionate is part of that.”
Family First
Beckham became a father at 23 and has always prioritized his family despite his demanding career. “Fatherhood makes you grow up quickly,” he shared. “Life becomes about your kids—you realize they’re more important than anything else.”
Equal Love for All His Children
The football star has shared affectionate moments with all his children, including his 11-year-old daughter Harper. However, he admitted that his eldest son, Brooklyn, now 18, might find such displays a bit awkward. “I kiss all my kids on the lips—though maybe not Brooklyn anymore,” he joked.
Supporting Their Dreams
Beckham is equally devoted to encouraging his children’s ambitions, even if they don’t align with his career. “None of my kids want to be footballers, and that’s fine,” he said. “The important thing is to support them in whatever they want to do.”
While Beckham’s public displays of affection continue to draw mixed reactions, psychologists caution that parents should be mindful of how these gestures might affect a child’s understanding of personal boundaries. Nonetheless, for Beckham, these moments are simply his way of expressing love and devotion to his children.