Publication Type

Book Chapter

Version

publishedVersion

Publication Date

1-2024

Abstract

With the intensifying use of social media in many realms of everyday life, even parenting is manifesting a public dimension. Whereas one might regard parenting as a private activity undertaken within the home, the use of social media to highlight the joys and trials of child-rearing has put parenting under the digital spotlight. Parents are keen to showcase their children’s growth and development to family and friends. Significant achievements invite praise and social endorsement, as well as commendations for excellent parenting. The sharing of parenting struggles over social media can also elicit expressions of commiseration, sympathy and support. The ensuing virtuous cycles of mutual affirmation and validation can create a sense of community, but the competitiveness and envy that could result may also be alienating. Consequently, the tensions amid such social media dynamics surrounding performative parenting in our hyper-connected era warrant greater scrutiny.

Keywords

Mobile communication, Home-school conferencing apps, Self-presentation, Peer pressure, Parent-school connections, Parent-child relations

Discipline

Child Psychology | Family, Life Course, and Society | Social Media

Research Areas

Integrative Research Areas

Publication

Research Handbook on Social Media and Society

Editor

Marko M. Skoric & Natalie Pang

First Page

2

Last Page

11

ISBN

9781800377042

Identifier

10.4337/9781800377059.00009

Publisher

Edward Elgar

City or Country

Chelterham

Copyright Owner and License

Authors

Additional URL

https://doi.org/10.4337/9781800377059.00009

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