Sharenting: Navigating the Digital Parenthood

In the age of oversharing on social media, the trend of ‘sharenting’ is a growing concern. Defined as the act of parents sharing their children’s photos and personal information online, sharenting raises questions about privacy, consent, and its impact on parent-child relationships.

Dr. Sonal Anand, a psychiatrist, highlights the potential pitfalls of sharenting. Beyond the violation of a child’s privacy, the constant online exposure may lead to a heightened need for external validation, impacting a child’s self-worth. The pressure to present curated versions of their lives online could result in increased anxiety and performance pressure during adolescence.

The dangers associated with sharenting include the risk of cyberbullying, exposure to online predators, and the permanent impact on a child’s future reputation. Dr. Anand emphasizes the importance of parents setting positive examples by practicing responsible digital behaviour, seeking permission from older children before sharing pictures, and educating them about online boundaries.

While sharenting can foster a sense of community among parents, with shared tips and celebrations, caution is crucial to ensure cyber safety. As the digital parenting landscape evolves, finding the right balance between sharing joyous moments and safeguarding a child’s privacy becomes paramount.