Parents Oversharing on the Web

Parents are taking TMI to a whole new level.


by Derek James/Photojournalist Billy Carrier

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Mom Shannon Rauch admits that oversharing on the web can be hard to avoid.

"If you have some kind of situation at home and you're really upset it's really hard not to go on Twitter or Facebook and be like AAAGHHH!"

Shannon tries to avoid it because she says, "They know it's about them."

Rauch has seen other parents get graphically personal.

"Especially with their babies. Babies first bowel movement, babies first tantrum or just complaining about how much their kids are irritating them," she explains.

There are even websites dedicated to calling out parents who overshare.

From bathroom behavior to mama drama, one site says it provides a public service and some laughs which is why Relationship Expert Dr. Darshana Hawks says many parents choose to reveal too much.

"Maybe the mother is a stay-at-home mom she thinks it's funny but she's not thinking about dad who might be working at a law firm and the impact that's going to have on him," says Hawks.

As children get older trouble at school is often a consequence.

"Your daughter is probably finding out through other children in school. They will probably find out quicker that way and you're creating a possible negative situation for them from a peer pressure and peer review perspective," explains Hawks.

Dr. Dar says parents should consider how posts will affect their spouse and their kids.
"Will it impact my child and their future not just presently dealing with other children but also in school and when they get a job."

A good reminder because what happens on the internet, stays on the internet.