Georgia barber gives children “old man” haircut as punishment

SNELLVILLE, Ga.- It’s dubbed the “George Jefferson,” “Benjamin Button,” and the “Old Man” haircut. It’s the work of barber Russell Frederick, and it’s gone viral.

Most kids who sit in Russell Frederick’s chair receive a routine cut, but Frederick may use his clippers to wield his own unique brand of punishment – a haircut resembling that of George Jefferson used to discipline unruly children.

Last week a boy’s mom came in requesting the disciplinary cut for her son. Frederick posted the child’s before and after photos on his Instagram page capturing national attention. His phones were ringing off the hook with calls from network television shows and newspaper outlets.

Frederick’s own  12-year-old son was the first to sport this “look” after getting into trouble last fall.

“Because it worked on my son, his grades have dropped and I shaved his head bold and his grades skyrocketed afterwards.”

Frederick’s gotten a lot of support from parents who feel it’s a good disciplinary option for children who misbehave.

“People care about their appearance, especially at a young age,” said Frederick.

But Frederick admits he has  taken some heat from critics who feel this form of public humiliation is akin to emotional abuse. He defends his actions, and says he’ll continue providing the service to parents looking for a creative way to punish children who get out of line.