Modern parents are turning to social media to understand how to raise their child better. Here's how ... [+]
Sharenting—the act of sharing parenting experiences and one’s kids’ lives on social media—understandably carries negative connotations.
The 2023 National Poll on Children’s Health conducted by the University of Michigan Health and C.S. Mott Children’s Hospital finds that 72% of parents reported at least one aspect of social media sharing that concerns them: unhealthy or dangerous activities carried out by the kids, disclosing private information, oversharing and sharing embarrassing or inappropriate content.
Despite parental concerns, sharenting continues to be popular among all types of parents—first-time moms, single dads or parents of special needs children. The question, then, is: what benefits do parents derive from sharenting that accounts for its popularity?
Here are three ways social media can add value and vibrancy to your parenting journey.
1. All Parenthoods Are Welcome
Sharenting allows parents to share different perspectives and methods for child-rearing concerns that they face. It facilitates exploration and experimentation with new parenting strategies that other parents might swear by.
A 2019 study highlighted that mothers appreciated that they could gather multiple viewpoints and crowdsource relevant information.
“I read some of them (parenting websites) on the Internet if there are questions about behavioral changes or developmental stages, because I think a lot of older resources like my parents, may have forgotten what that stuff is like,” said a participant.
The National Poll on Children’s Health finds that the biggest reason parents turn to social media is to get ideas and strategies that they can try out. Interestingly, one in four parents turn to social media because they want to do things differently than their own parents did. Social media, then, serves as a space where parents can glean inspiration and even receive constructive feedback to improve their parenting skills.
2. Raised By A Virtual Village
For many, parenting can be an isolating experience with the path ahead seeming never-ending, filled with unexpected twists and turns. People often find themselves second-guessing their parenting decisions, feeling overwhelmed with the constant barrage of chores and disconnecting from their previous roles and social circles.
Sharenting helps parents find and mingle with other parents and builds a sense of camaraderie for those undergoing similar experiences. The National Poll found that 37% of parents indulge in sharenting because it makes them feel that they are not alone on this journey.
The 2019 study also reported that many mothers used social media forums as a way to meet other mothers and share experiences.
“Over the years I’ve been using those (forums) more and more, joining more and more listservs. And then I came to find out that there were some moms’ groups, ...and they have cohorts based on the week your child was born, and you meet for several weeks, and then those women become friends,” explained a participant.
3. A Digital Townhall For Parents
Parenting can sometimes feel like a thankless role that leaves parents feeling unseen. A mere acknowledgement of one’s parenting choices can go a long way in making them feel validated and appreciated. Sharenting helps parents feel that their struggles and efforts are being acknowledged.
A 2016 study found that sharenting can satisfy parents’ need for self-realization, social approval and they can showcase that they are able to fulfill their parental tasks.
Additionally, sharenting has the potential to improve parents’ emotional states as it becomes a means to document memories and bolster their parental identity. A 2023 study found that sharenting leads to feelings of being a good parent. It also creates positive moods and temporary happiness for the parents.
Sharenting offers a platform for parents to connect, share and celebrate the joys of parenthood. However, it’s important to approach sharenting thoughtfully and responsibly while taking proactive measures to safeguard children’s privacy. Setting boundaries, respecting children’s digital footprint and understanding the implications of oversharing are all critical aspects of sharenting that can help parents reap the benefits while prioritizing their children’s well-being.
Wondering if you have healthy sharenting practices? Take this psychological assessment to find out: Sharenting Evaluation Scale
