Victoria Beckham has received backlash on social media after posting a sweet picture of herself kissing her daughter Harper, wishing her a happy fifth birthday.

A number of Posh’s Instagram followers objected to the sight of a mother her kissing her child on the lips – despite it being quite a common thing, really.

The picture was posted on Sunday (July 10th), on the fifth birthday of Victoria and David Beckham’s youngest. “Happy Birthday baby girl," wrote the 42 year old fashion designer and former Spice Girl in the caption. “We all love you so much X @davidbeckham @brooklynbeckham kisses from mummy X.”

Happy Birthday baby girl ?????? We all love you so much ?????? X @davidbeckham @brooklynbeckham kisses from mummy X

A photo posted by Victoria Beckham (@victoriabeckham) on

Some people jumped in to criticise the pose that Victoria was striking as she kissed her daughter, the Manchester Evening News noted. "Ewww sorry I'm old fashioned it looks like they making out," one person wrote.

“It is strange to kiss your parents on the lips,” one typical complaint read. “Stop saying to other people it isn't if they think it is because guess what they aren't the only one.”

More: David Beckham wishes his “pretty lady” Harper a happy birthday

One commenter wrote that “a lot of kids get cold sores from their parents kissing them on the mouth.” Doctors have, on occasion, advised that parents should not kiss their children on the lips, describing the habit as “sexual” and “confusing”.

However, just as many people defended mum-of-four Victoria at the same time, arguing that doing so was perfectly natural and conveys nothing but affection.

“Stupid comments of stupid people… It’s a mother’s love end of… If you think it’s wrong well that’s cos something is wrong with yous (sic),” wrote one person in defence of Posh. Another wrote, “Beautiful picture, do not understand some peoples point of views the picture shows a mother’s and daughter’s love for each other.”

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