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Daily Talker: Foster Parent Application Denied Over Spanking

The state's highest court ruled Monday that the Massachusetts' child welfare agency acted within its rights to deny a Fitchburg couple's application to become foster parents. Why were they denied? Because they spank their children. Gregory and Melanie Magazu told WBZ last year, they consider spanking a loving form of measured punishment and one that is in accordance with their Christian faith. The couple says they talk to their children first about why they need to be punished, and always give them a hug after. They told DCF they would not spank any foster children, but would continue to spank their own children. But officials argued that could still traumatize the foster children. Melanie Magazu told WBZ it's not about spanking, the "issue is how are you parenting and are you a fit parent?"  Spanking is a controversial topic. What do you think? Is it ok to spank your children? Should families who discipline by spanking be ruled out as foster parents?

Leave your comments below, or on Facebook or Twitter using #WBZTalker.

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