Exploring the Depths of Sharenting: Unveiling the Impact of Sociodemographic Factors and Internet Addiction

Abstract

Introduction

This study explored sharenting's impact on children's privacy and factors influencing parental sharing. Limited knowledge raises concerns about children's rights in this growing phenomenon.

Method

A quasi-experimental cross-sectional study included 411 parents (372 females, 39 males) with a mean age of 38.5 ± 10.5 years. Chi-square tests analyzed group differences; regression assessed the “sharenting practice” impact.

Results

Out of 411 parents, 67.2% (n = 247) shared photographs of their children on social media, whereas 32.8% (n = 164) did not share. Significant associations were found between sharenting and factors such as younger age (B = −0.06, p = .002), lower bachelor's degree level (B = 0.87, p < .001), higher internet addiction (B = 0.05, p < .001), and longer social media use (B = 0.17, p < .001).

Discussion

Understanding factors in sharenting's impact on children's rights is crucial. Our findings suggest sociodemographic factors, internet addiction, and social media duration influence sharenting. Health professionals can guide parents on responsible social media usage and digital literacy to protect their children's online privacy.