In response to the recent controversy centered around photographs of Kate Gosselin publicly spanking her daughter Leah, the Jon & Kate Plus 8 star tells Life & Style exclusively through her reps:

"Whether the paparazzi are there or not, I am a mother first. I love my children and when they misbehave, I discipline them as I deem appropriate for the situation."

For full coverage of this breaking story, as well as details on how this couple on the rocks spent their 10th anniversary apart from each other, check out the current issue of Life & Style Weekly, on newsstands now!

Photo Credit: Courtesy of TLC