the hidden consequences of “sharenting,” where parents share their children’s lives online, often without consent.
Cam Barrett, whose personal moments were posted publicly from a young age, experienced bullying, anxiety, and safety risks.
Now 25, she advocates for children’s digital rights, pushing back against the loss of privacy caused by family vlogging and monetized content.
Some states, like Illinois, are introducing laws to protect children featured online, requiring compensation and safeguards similar to those for child actors.
Experts urge caution, noting the lasting impact on kids’ privacy and autonomy.
Cam Barrett’s childhood: Her mother overshared private details (first period, adoption, medical issues, hospital stays) on Facebook/MySpace.
Impact: Led to bullying, anxiety, loss of trust, and even safety risks (a man followed her home at 12 after seeing posts).
Exploitation: Barrett says her mother filmed vulnerable moments (car accident, staph infection) instead of offering comfort.
Advocacy: Now 25, Barrett campaigns against “sharenting” and family vlogging, urging laws to protect children’s privacy and earnings.
Movement: Young activists, like Chris McCarty (Quit Clicking Kids), push for regulations similar to child actor protections.
Legal progress: Illinois passed a law requiring parents to set aside earnings from monetized child content; other states are considering similar bills.
Expert concerns: Children can’t consent or understand the reach of social media, and oversharing can harm their mental health and autonomy.
WDKX Holiday Stream