The The Double-Edged Sword of Sharenting: Ethical Considerations and Solutions for Protecting Children’s Digital Privacy

Abstract

In the age of social media, the phenomenon of "sharenting"—the practice of parents sharing extensive information and images of their children online—has gained significant traction. While this trend allows parents to connect with friends, family, and broader communities, it raises profound ethical concerns regarding children's privacy and autonomy. This narrative review explores the implications of sharenting, focusing on the potential risks it poses to children's well-being, including privacy violations, cyberbullying, and the long-term impact of digital footprints especially from perspective of commercial sharenting and kid influencers. Through a review of existing literature, the discussion highlights the delicate balance between parental expression and the child's right to privacy. It examines the ethical responsibilities of parents in curating their children's online presence and considers the perspectives of child development experts on how such practices may affect children's identity formation and social interactions. Furthermore, the article underscores the need for parents to be more cognizant of their children's consent and the potential ramifications of sharing personal information in a public forum. Ultimately, this exploration seeks to foster a dialogue about responsible sharenting, advocating for a framework that prioritizes the best interests of children while allowing parents to share their experiences. By addressing these ethical dilemmas, we can contribute to a more informed discourse on the implications of parental sharing in the digital age.