The term ‘sharenting’ refers to parents sharing images of their children on social media platforms, an activity that can inadvertently expose these children to various dangers online. While it may seem harmless, the act of posting family photos publicly can have severe long-term consequences.
This article delves into multiple aspects of sharenting, exploring how it could potentially harm children and offering strategies for parents to minimise the associated risks. The risks range from school bullying to potential predator attention, teaching children misplaced values, and the future use of these images.
School Bullies, Predators, and Future Risks
Many teenagers worry that photos posted by their parents could be used as material for bullying. Most bullying today occurs on mobile devices, with young people adding peers to group chats to humiliate them with embarrassing photos. The possibility of these images resurfacing during significant life events, like running for office, poses a genuine risk.
More alarmingly, images shared by parents could attract criminals. Photos might be taken and reposted on websites for malicious purposes. Additionally, information like school names or bus stops can make it easier for predators to track children offline.
The Psychological Impact on Children
Parents must also consider the psychological lessons imparted through sharenting. If children grow up posing for photos to attract online attention, they may believe that external validation is paramount. This mindset is linked to anxiety and depression.
This issue is particularly problematic for girls, who are already under societal pressure regarding their appearance. Teaching girls to perform for social media can reinforce harmful notions regarding their value and appearance, impacting their mental health and self-esteem negatively.
Responsible Sharenting Practices
Not all sharenting is harmful. Sharing photos on private accounts can help children maintain connections with extended family and friends globally. However, parents must be cautious and selective about who they accept as followers.
Private accounts aren’t foolproof. Content can still be hacked or accessed unethically. Verified friend or follower requests should be double-checked offline to ensure authenticity.
Parents can also protect their children by using emojis over their faces, a method utilised by prominent figures. Evaluating whether a photo can embarrass the child in the future is crucial.
Limit the Information Shared
Parents should avoid sharing sensitive details like the names of schools or regular locations frequented by their children, which could be used maliciously. Limiting this information reduces the chances of offline tracking by unwanted parties.
Security questions for online accounts often include personal details like birthplaces. Avoiding such disclosures online can help prevent potential hacking incidents.
Anonymising Social Media Accounts
For sharing sensitive subjects such as medical conditions, parents might consider using pseudonyms or anonymised accounts on platforms that allow it. This practice can offer an extra layer of protection, ensuring personal information remains secure.
Anonymity can help in seeking support or sharing experiences without risking children’s identities or future security.
Minimising Risks through Awareness
Awareness is key for parents concerned about their children’s online presence. Regular discussions about the implications of social media and safer practices can cultivate a more secure environment for children online.
Sharenting responsibly involves a conscious effort to balance the joys of sharing family moments with the imperative to protect children from potentially harmful exposure.
Conclusion
Sharenting is not inherently harmful but requires mindful practices to ensure children’s safety. Parents need to weigh the potential risks against the benefits when deciding to post images or information about their children online.
By adopting responsible sharenting habits, parents can share precious moments while minimising the risks of bullying, predatory behaviour, and psychological impacts.
Sharenting carries potential risks, but these can be mitigated with careful consideration and responsible practices. Parents have the responsibility to protect their children from undue exposure while enjoying the benefits of a connected world.
Conscious efforts and mindful practices can make all the difference. Parents must strive to find a balance that fosters safety without completely forgoing the joys of sharing family life online.
