Gottschalk's slap in the face: a parenting style under criticism!

Gottschalk's slap in the face: a parenting style under criticism!

A storm of indignation is currently sweeping social media, and at the center is the well-known entertainer Thomas Gottschalk (74). The impetus for the heated debate about parenting methods came from Gottschalk with his book “Herbstblond,” published in 2015, in which he openly reports on his experiences with slapping as an educational measure for his sons. These statements, which seem to many to be outrageous and intolerable, were sharply criticized by weather expert Jörg Kachelmann on X: “Thomas Gottschalk is a child abuser. If he had been reported back then, he would be a convicted criminal today.”

The wave of criticism was enormous. Many Internet users found the slaps described in the book unacceptable and horrific. They emphasized that corporal punishment in education is not only outdated but also prohibited by law. Since 2001, the German Civil Code has enshrined the right of children to a non-violent upbringing. This requirement excludes any kind of physical punishment, but also psychological injuries.

The controversial book passage

The anger comes primarily from a specific passage in which Gottschalk describes how he slapped his son Roman because he accidentally dropped three scoops of ice cream. Gottschalk also describes that he slapped his other son Tristan because he was playing with a record player and scratching the music. For many readers, Gottschalk's memories of these incidents seem like a relic from another time.

The entertainer himself wasn't exactly remorseful in his story. He emphasizes that he doesn't remember ever having such sensitive skin as a child. Gottschalk has not yet been available to comment on his current thinking about these experiences. However, this week he plans to present his new book “Unfiltered” in Hamburg, which he is currently promoting heavily – he could perhaps find clearer words here.

Strong supporters

Despite the strong criticism, there are also voices that support Gottschalk. For example, Hubert Aiwanger, Bavaria's Economics Minister from the Free Voters, wrote an angry reply to Kachelmann on Bet you’ll feel better then?!” Aiwanger tries to steer the debate in a relaxed direction, but also shows understanding for the entertainer.

Gottschalk's statements are not the first controversial statements to put him in the spotlight in recent times. He openly admits that he is often indifferent to political correctness and is prepared to face the consequences of his blunt speaking style. Regarding his past in the entertainment industry, he said that at his age you no longer have to try to be “cool”. His stance can be seen as part of a broader discussion about societal norms regarding education, respect and personal freedom.

Especially at a time when there are so many discussions about upbringing and dealing with children, Gottschalk's case can serve as an example of how serious social changes affect the image of responsibility in upbringing. Ideas that were once acceptable are now carefully questioned. The reaction to his parenting stories shows how much the perception of acceptable parenting methods has changed - what was considered normal just a few decades ago is now on the brink.

This debate about Gottschalk's parenting methods is not only a social discourse, but also raises fundamental questions about human interactions and the responsibility that parents should bear for the well-being of their children. In this sense, it remains to be seen what consequences the controversies surrounding the entertainer will have and to what extent he wants to respond to the concerns of his critics in his next appearances. The public will be watching with interest to see how this discussion develops.

The background and current developments on this topic are described in detail in an article from www.fraenkischertag.de.