Menu
Coined from the words “Sharing” and “Parenting,” Sharenting refers to what parents do whenever they share and post about their family, their lives, and their kids on social media platforms.
Besides sharing photos and videos, a lot of parents also use social media platforms to also exchange advice with fellow parents, and provide a glimpse of challenges that come with parenting.
Although the act is tied to sentimentality and parents’ could have good intentions, in the current state of the internet it could also pose some risks. Sharenting poses potential security risks to children, which include identity theft, bullying, misuse of photos, stalking, and harassment among others. Even posting pictures such as their child in their school uniform, or even their report cards are giving out sensitive information.
Although the act is tied to sentimentality and parents’ could have good intentions, in the current state of the internet it could also pose some risks. Sharenting poses potential security risks to children, which include identity theft, bullying, misuse of photos, stalking, and harassment among others. Even posting pictures such as their child in their school uniform, or even their report cards are giving out sensitive information.
Other than security risks, sharenting may also affect a child’s mental health if it gets too far, or even to the point where a child’s consent is disregarded. They may internalize this pressure as they grow up, and become overly conscious and have insecurities.
Celebrating achievements, sharing memories and things about their kids, their pride and joy– their love and their immense pride for their children could overshadow other factors, blinding them from how these actions could also have risks if they’re not too careful.
In the end, parents carry a big responsibility in raising their children healthily, and this should extend even within digital spaces. Regardless of intention, even if it’s all for fun and for memories, becoming conscious and mindful about sharing in social media is still important to prevent putting anyone especially their child at risk.
