The Digital Privacy Dimension of Sharenting: Social Norms, Parental Strategies and Privacy Concerns

Introduction: With the widespread use of social media in the digital age, parents’ perceptions and concerns regarding their children's privacy have become increasingly complex. This study examines how the practice of sharenting intersects with perceptions and concerns about digital privacy. It also explores how factors such as educational background and the child’s gender influence these practices, within the framework of broader social and cultural norms. Method: In the study, an online survey was conducted with three hundred parents from various socioeconomic backgrounds in İzmir, and semi-structured interviews were held with twenty parents. The data obtained through a mixed-methods approach were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Results or Findings: The findings reveal a complex relationship between sharenting, digital privacy concerns, and demographic variables. Digital privacy concerns are closely linked to parents’ educational levels. It was found that parents of daughters tend to approach privacy issues with greater sensitivity. Additionally, the continued sharing behavior of parents through various strategies highlights the “privacy-openness paradox.” Discussion or Conclusion: Digital privacy is not merely a technical issue, but also a cultural and social one. Therefore, digital literacy programs should include components on privacy ethics and gender sensitivity. It is also crucial to enhance default privacy settings on social media platforms, ensure legal protections specific to children's data, and address socioeconomic inequalities. Future research should explore the long-term effects of sharenting from the perspective of children themselves.