Within the last couple of years, there has been a rising trend of parents using their children as props, or performers for online content and attention. These “Family Channels” are typically vlog-type videos that capture a “day in the lives” of these families. While these aren’t inherently an issue, the children in these families are often the center of these videos. It makes one wonder; is growing up with an audience good for kids? 

As of 2023, an estimated 4.9 billion people have some form of social media, which is over half of the current population. Social Media has become a way to obtain money as well as notoriety, because of this, the allure of virality has caused many people who are desperate for views and attention to go to the extremes. “Shock value” refers to content that provokes a reaction of disgust, shock and anger, and it is often used to gain publicity. Sadly, this is not a new concept in the world of family channels, as in these videos, parents have admitted to forcing children to cry on camera, as well as using them as essentially free labor. 

I’m sure that we all can remember when we were kids, we were loud, expressive, and explorative. We were free to find ourselves as people, and even though we might think we were embarrassing or obnoxious, we grew into the people we are today because of that freedom. Now, what happens when that freedom is taken away, when suddenly carefree childishness is looked down upon by thousands of viewers and even your own parents? Not only are the children stripped of their autonomy, but their personal details are also shared with vast audiences. This leads to potential exploitation by strangers, as well as the struggle of leaving the public eye when the children no longer rely on their parents. 

Parents producing this type of content are emotionally manipulative, they use their upset children for views, and they neglect the well-being of their children. They treat them as commodities which grant them money and supporters. It is important for parents to understand the potential harm that this type of content can cause their children, and that children are individuals, not accessories. Parenting requires prioritizing your child’s well-being and safety over money and fame. They need privacy just as adults do, as well as room to grow as individuals without the stress of an audience.