It’s difficult to fathom that not long ago, parenting guidance was solely sourced from books. Recently, I’ve been contemplating how the medium influences the content itself, especially in the realm of parenting advice. One notable shift is the increasing polarization of parenting advice on TikTok.
About a decade ago, during the era of Instagram’s “live-laugh-love” phase, discussions in my social circle centered on the merits of attachment parenting. Topics like “natural” childbirth, breastfeeding on demand, and co-sleeping were prevalent, with some enthusiasts even delving into practices like “elimination communication” and nonviolent communication. These debates followed the popularity of books such as The Whole-Brain Child and Nonviolent Communication in the mid-2000s, setting the stage for today’s parenting satire.
In 2010, I felt inundated with conflicting opinions upon entering the realm of parenthood. The pressure to breastfeed and provide only organic food was overwhelming. Fast forward to the present day, and many of these debates have transformed into consumer choices. What was once ideological battlegrounds have now been commercialized, offering a plethora of products catering to every parenting preference.
Simultaneously, a new wave of parenting advice thrives on platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where influencers and experts vie for attention, often becoming subjects of satire and critique. The reinterpretation of advice by everyday individuals on these platforms can lead to exaggerated or conflicting versions, fueling parental reactions.
Reflecting on this evolution, I observed the emergence of a secondary market for parenting advice, characterized by a diverse range of voices from clinicians to self-proclaimed parenting coaches. While some, like Dr. Becky, aim to provide credible guidance, they also become targets for satire due to their popularity.
Satirical content on platforms like TikTok often takes aim at parenting approaches like “gentle parenting,” portraying exaggerated scenarios that resonate with viewers. This trend reflects a broader societal frustration with unrealistic parenting ideals perpetuated by social media.
The intersection of social media and parenting advice amplifies feelings of inadequacy while offering a sense of validation. While some find value in platforms like Dr. Becky’s Good Inside for navigating challenges, others view it as a supplement rather than a comprehensive guide to parenting.
The ongoing debate surrounding parenting styles is not unique to the digital age. Historical anecdotes, like Vice-President Spiro Agnew’s critique of Dr. Benjamin Spock in 1970, highlight the enduring scrutiny faced by parents and experts alike.
In essence, the evolution of parenting advice reflects broader societal anxieties and challenges, underscoring the timeless complexity of the parenting journey.
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