Parenting in today’s digital-first and social media-oriented world presents unique challenges that previous generations did not encounter. Unlike millennials, who documented milestones through photo albums, diaries, and personal recollections, younger generations now have their milestones instantly shared and accessible online by their parents. This shift marks the emergence of a child’s digital footprint, which will persist and develop over time.
The phenomenon known as “sharenting” has emerged as an unintended consequence of parenting in the social media era. While sharing family moments online can foster connections and support networks, experts caution about the potential risks associated with sharenting and emphasize the importance of safeguarding children’s privacy and well-being.
Understanding Sharenting
According to a survey published in the journal “Healthcare” in 2023, sharenting involves sharing a child’s photos, videos, personal anecdotes, and updates online. This practice, a blend of “sharing” and “parenting,” typically involves detailing children’s daily routines such as meals, sleep, bathing, and play activities. However, the ethical concern arises from the fact that young children cannot provide consent for the dissemination of their images and stories, nor comprehend the future implications of their online presence.
Implications of Sharenting
Sharenting raises ethical dilemmas surrounding consent and privacy. Experts like Monika Roots, MD, and Jolie Silva, PhD, warn about the inadvertent consequences of sharenting, such as fostering unhealthy comparisons and potentially impacting children’s mental health and self-esteem. Dr. Roots underscores the importance of protecting children’s physical safety by refraining from sharing sensitive information like school details or residential locations online.
Nurturing Digital Literacy
To navigate the complexities of sharenting, experts recommend fostering open dialogues with children about their online presence. Dr. Roots advises engaging children in discussions about shared content, promoting tech literacy, and emphasizing the significance of authenticity and self-worth in the digital realm.
Striking a Balance
For parents grappling with the dilemma of sharing family moments while safeguarding privacy, introspection and intentionality are key. Dr. Silva suggests reflecting on motivations for social media sharing and considering potential repercussions on children’s future perceptions. Maintaining a private social media account restricted to close contacts can offer a middle ground, allowing for familial connections while minimizing exposure to unknown audiences.
In conclusion, the practice of sharenting underscores the need for thoughtful consideration of children’s privacy and well-being in the digital age. By fostering open communication, promoting digital literacy, and exercising discretion in online sharing, parents can navigate the fine line between sharing cherished moments and safeguarding their children’s privacy.