Should Parents Think Twice Before Sharing About Their Children Online? Insights from “Sharenthood”
The Internet is awash with personal content. However, in the seemingly innocuous act of sharing, are we risking the privacy and security of our most vulnerable? This is a central question addressed by Leah A. Plunkett in her insightful book, “Sharenthood: Why We Should Think Before We Talk about Our Kids Online.”
In today’s digital landscape, a child’s life can be documented online from birth, sometimes even earlier. From adorable baby photos to achievements and milestones, parents often unknowingly create a comprehensive digital footprint of their child, long before the child can comprehend the concept of privacy. So, what are the implications of this digital oversharing, and why should parents think twice before hitting ‘share’?
Firstly, Plunkett highlights the vulnerability of children’s data. Every digital interaction generates data, and a child’s digital footprint is no exception. This data can be harvested, shared, and even sold, potentially exposing children to targeted advertising and other forms of exploitation. Therefore, parents’ decisions to share can inadvertently result in their child’s data being used in ways they neither intend nor approve.
Secondly, the book argues that parental sharing can unwittingly infringe on children’s future autonomy. By shaping their child’s online identity, parents may impact their child’s future self-perception and the perception of others. The effects of this can range from embarrassment to impacting opportunities for their child’s future, such as college admissions or job prospects.
Thirdly, Plunkett underlines the potential psychological implications of ‘sharenting.’ Children may feel undue pressure or anxiety from having their lives publicly displayed online, often without their consent. The long-term impacts of this on children’s mental health and self-esteem are still unknown and deserve serious consideration.
Despite these alarming prospects, the book does not suggest a total moratorium on sharing. Instead, it advocates for a more thoughtful and measured approach to sharing children’s lives online. Parents should be aware of the potential risks, mindful of their children’s rights to privacy, and proactive in understanding and controlling the digital footprint they create for their children.
The book also calls for broader systemic changes. This includes improved digital literacy education for parents and children, updated privacy laws, and better policies and practices from companies handling children’s data.
In conclusion, “Sharenthood: Why We Should Think Before We Talk about Our Kids Online” serves as a compelling wake-up call to parents about the potential consequences of oversharing their children’s lives on the internet. By encouraging a more cautious and informed approach to sharing, it hopes to promote a safer and more respectful digital environment for the youngest generation.
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