the "sharenting" trap: protecting children's digital footprint in the age of gen alpha influencers

In this crucial episode, we unpack the unsettling world of social media, where the rise of young influencers is often shadowed by exploitation risks hidden behind the allure of digital stardom. Beginning with an in-depth look at a New York Times exposé (February 2024), we uncover the troubling trend of parents managing their children’s influencer profiles—a reality in which parental aspirations can unwittingly open doors for predators. The investigation scrutinized over 2.1 million Instagram posts, conducted months of online surveillance on suspicious interactions, and included 100+ interviews with parents, children, and industry insiders.

This episode explores:

• The Hidden Dangers in Child Influencer Culture: When a mother’s intention to support her child’s career meets the darker side of online commodification
• The Disturbing ‘Marketplace’ of Girl Influencers: How some adults exploit children’s content, crossing the boundaries of safety and privacy
• Sharenting vs. Privacy Rights: A dive into the 2017 study “Sharenting: Children’s Privacy in the Age of Social Media,” which questions the long-term impact of parents sharing their children’s lives online
• Balancing Public Image with Child Welfare: The struggle parents face between growing a child’s digital presence and preserving their right to privacy
• Ethics and Best Practices for Parents: Insights from privacy experts on creating a healthier digital environment for children, protecting them from irreversible privacy violations

With a focus on parental responsibility, child digital identity, and ethical challenges, this episode offers a wake-up call on the hidden consequences of “sharenting.” If you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply someone concerned about the future of online privacy, tune in for a vital discussion on safeguarding children’s identities in an increasingly public world.

Articles referenced: “A Marketplace of Girl Influencers Managed by Moms and Stalked by Men” By Jennifer Valentino-DeVries and Michael H. Keller via the New York Times (Feb 2024) and “Sharenting: Children's Privacy in the Age of Social Media” by Stacey B. Steinberg (2017)

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The information contained in this podcast episode is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for treatment or consultation with a licensed mental health professional.

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