Dangers of SHARENTING

The Dangers of Sharenting: Risks and Strategies for Responsible Sharing

Introduction

Sharing is caring ? NO! Not necessarily online!

“Sharenting,” the act of parents sharing images, videos, and stories about their children online, has become increasingly popular. While social media offers a space for family connection and support, sharing too much about children online can pose significant risks. Sharenting’s potential dangers impact children’s privacy, future opportunities, mental health, and even physical safety. As awareness of these consequences grows, parents can take steps to practice responsible online sharing that safeguards their children’s well-being.

Key Risks of Sharenting

1. Privacy Concerns and Identity Theft

? Overview: When parents share identifiable information about their children, such as full names, birthdays, or locations, they risk exposing their children to identity theft and other forms of data misuse. Once shared, this information can circulate online indefinitely, creating a lasting digital footprint.

? Statistics: According to a report by Barclays, sharenting could be responsible for up to two-thirds of identity theft cases affecting young people by 2030, as criminals increasingly use social media data for fraud.

2. Psychological and Social Consequences

? Impact on Self-Image: Children whose lives are shared extensively online may feel their autonomy is compromised, especially when posts include embarrassing or private moments. As children grow, they might view these online portrayals with discomfort or resentment, leading to lasting effects on self-esteem and trust in parental boundaries.

? Research Findings: A University of Michigan study revealed that many children, once old enough to understand, reported feelings of embarrassment and frustration over their online presence created by parents without their consent.

3. Increased Risk of Cyberbullying

? Social Implications: Content shared innocently by parents can sometimes be used by peers for teasing or bullying. Embarrassing posts may become material for ridicule, especially during adolescence, affecting children’s confidence and social relationships.

? Evidence: The Cyberbullying Research Center notes that children with a highly visible online presence are at greater risk of cyberbullying, which may result in social anxiety and low self-esteem.

4. Reduced Control Over Digital Footprint

? Future Repercussions: Children today face a unique challenge—their digital footprint often begins before they can consent or even understand the concept of privacy. This can impact future opportunities, as colleges and employers increasingly consider applicants’ online presence in their decisions.

? Example: Research from the University of Florida highlights concerns about children’s digital footprints, noting that the online content shared by parents may later affect their children’s college admissions or job prospects.

5. Exploitation Risks

? Predator Threat: Unfortunately, some online predators misuse innocent photos shared by parents. While parents may see a harmless family moment, others might misuse the images in ways that jeopardize children’s safety.

? Statistics: A report from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) found that nearly half of the images shared on certain predatory websites originated from social media posts by parents.

6. Long-Term Resentment Toward Parents

? Resentment and Relationship Strain: Studies and interviews with young adults indicate that some develop resentment toward parents who overshared aspects of their childhood. In countries like France, adolescents have even pursued legal action against parents, arguing that sharenting caused harm to their mental well-being and online reputation.

Actionable Guidelines for Responsible Sharenting

To protect children’s privacy and autonomy, parents can adopt mindful practices for sharing online:

? Ask for Consent: For older children, seek their permission before sharing personal photos or stories.

? Limit Identifiable Details: Avoid posting specifics like the child’s full name, school, or exact location.

? Use Privacy Settings: Restrict access to close friends and family only, minimizing exposure to strangers.

? Think Long-Term: Consider how your child might feel about the content in the future.

? Educate and Discuss: Teach children about online privacy as they grow, building their awareness of their digital footprint.

Conclusion

Sharenting, though often motivated by pride and love, has serious implications for children’s privacy, safety, and future. Parents are encouraged to exercise caution, respect children’s autonomy, and prioritize their well-being. By practicing thoughtful sharenting, parents can create a balance that allows them to celebrate family moments while safeguarding their children’s rights.

References

1. Barclay’s Report on Sharenting and Identity Theft: Barclays Research Report

2. University of Michigan Study on Sharenting and Child Consent: University of Michigan Medicine

3. Cyberbullying Research Center on Risks for Overexposed Children: Cyberbullying Research Center

4. University of Florida Research on Digital Footprints: University of Florida News

5. National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) on Image Misuse: NCMEC Resources

6. Legal Actions Against Sharenting in France: The Guardian on Sharenting Lawsuits