1.1 Introduction
Social Media refers to online platforms and applications that facilitate the creation, sharing, and interaction of user-generated content. Social media includes websites and apps like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, where users can engage in networking, communication, and content sharing (Kaplan & Haenlein, 2010). The advent of social media has revolutionized many facets of modern life, including how individuals approach parenting. Social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, have become integral to daily routines, offering parent’s new ways to connect, share, and seek advice. These platforms provide a wealth of information, support networks, and community engagement, making them invaluable resources for contemporary parenting (Livingstone, 2018).
However, the impact of social media on parenting is multifaceted. While many parents find comfort and camaraderie in online communities, others face increased anxiety and pressure due to the constant comparisons and unrealistic portrayals of parenting lives online. The widespread sharing of parenting experiences has fostered a new kind of social pressure, where the idealized versions of family life can lead to feelings of inadequacy and stress (Gibbs, 2019).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
The history of social media's impact on parenting can be traced back to the early 2000s when the first social networking sites began to gain popularity. Initially, platforms like MySpace and early versions of Facebook were used predominantly by younger audiences. However, as these platforms evolved, their user base expanded to include a broader demographic, including parents seeking new ways to connect and share information (Boyd & Ellison, 2007).
In the mid-2000s, the rise of parenting blogs marked a significant shift in how parents accessed and shared information. These blogs provided a platform for parents to document their experiences, offer advice, and build communities around shared interests and challenges. This era saw the emergence of "mommy bloggers," who garnered large followings and influenced parenting trends and practices (Lopez, 2009). The content shared on these blogs ranged from personal anecdotes to expert advice, creating a diverse and accessible resource for parents.
The proliferation of smartphones and the advent of mobile applications in the late 2000s and early 2010s further transformed the landscape of digital parenting. Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter became easily accessible, allowing parents to connect and share content in real-time. The visual nature of platforms like Instagram introduced a new dimension to social comparison, as parents began sharing curated images of their family life, often highlighting idealized moments (Shepherd, 2015).
As social media use became more widespread, researchers began to study its effects on parenting. Early studies highlighted both the potential benefits and drawbacks. On the positive side, social media offered a sense of community and support, especially for parents who felt isolated due to geographical or social barriers. On the negative side, the pressure to present a perfect family image and the spread of misinformation were identified as significant concerns (Walker, Dworkin, & Connell, 2011).
In recent years, the conversation around social media and parenting has become more nuanced. Researchers have explored the ways in which different platforms affect parenting styles and behaviors. For example, Facebook groups have been found to provide valuable peer support and information sharing, while Instagram's emphasis on visual content can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and competition (Gibbs, 2019). Additionally, the role of social media in spreading misinformation, particularly regarding health and parenting practices, has been a growing area of concern (Chou, 2020).
The proliferation of social media over the past decade has brought significant changes to various aspects of life, including parenting. Historically, parenting advice and support were primarily obtained through family, friends, and professionals. However, the advent of social media has dramatically expanded the avenues through which parents can seek information and community. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have become central to how parents connect with each other and share their experiences (McDaniel, Coyne, & Holmes, 2012).
One of the key benefits of social media for parents is the easy access to a vast repository of information and advice. Online parenting communities offer immediate support and diverse perspectives, enabling parents to feel less isolated and more informed. These digital spaces provide forums for discussing challenges, sharing solutions, and celebrating milestones, fostering a sense of community and shared experience (Doty & Dworkin, 2014).
However, the influence of social media on parenting is not universally positive. The idealized portrayals of family life and parenting on social media can create unrealistic expectations and pressure to conform to perceived standards of success and happiness. This phenomenon, often referred to as "social comparison," can lead to increased stress and anxiety among parents who feel they are not measuring up to the curated lives they see online (Chae, 2015). Moreover, the rapid dissemination of misinformation can pose risks, as parents may encounter conflicting advice that complicates decision-making (Scull, Kupersmidt, & Weatherholt, 2017).
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the impact of social media on parenting.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that the rapid expansion of social media has introduced new dynamics into the realm of parenting, presenting both opportunities and challenges that require careful consideration. One major issue is the pervasive nature of social comparison facilitated by platforms like Instagram and Facebook. Parents frequently encounter idealized portrayals of family life that can create unrealistic expectations and lead to feelings of inadequacy and increased stress (Chae, 2015). This phenomenon, often referred to as "highlight reel" syndrome, exacerbates the pressure on parents to present a perfect image, potentially detracting from genuine parenting experiences.
Another significant problem is the spread of misinformation through social media. Parents often turn to online communities for advice and support, but the information they receive can be inconsistent and sometimes harmful. Misleading or incorrect health and parenting advice can spread rapidly, influencing decisions in ways that may not be beneficial or safe (Scull, Kupersmidt, & Weatherholt, 2017). The challenge lies in distinguishing credible information from unreliable sources, a task that can be daunting for many parents.
Furthermore, the constant connectivity afforded by social media can lead to a blurring of boundaries between online and offline life. This persistent engagement with digital platforms can reduce the quality of face-to-face interactions within families, potentially impacting parent-child relationships and family dynamics (McDaniel & Radesky, 2018). Parents may find themselves distracted by their online presence, leading to decreased attention and responsiveness to their children’s needs.
The pressure to maintain an active social media presence can also contribute to parental burnout. The demand to document and share parenting milestones and daily activities can be overwhelming, adding to the existing stresses of parenting. This constant need to engage with social media can detract from personal time and self-care, further exacerbating stress and fatigue (Baker & Yang, 2018). It is against the backdrop that this study seeks to address these problems by examining the impact of social media on parenting.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to investigate the multifaceted impact of social media on parenting practices, behaviors, and attitudes. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To analyze the positive influences of social media on parenting, including access to information, support networks, and community building;
- To examine the negative effects of social media on parenting, such as increased stress, anxiety, and the spread of misinformation;
- To assess the extent to which social media usage affects the quality of parent-child interactions and family dynamics;
- To explore parents' perceptions and experiences regarding social media as a tool for parenting; and
- To propose recommendations for parents, and educators on how to optimize the benefits of social media while minimizing its adverse effects on parenting.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- Are there positive impacts of social media on parenting practices and behaviors?
- Does social media usage affect the quality of face-to-face interactions between parents and children?
- Does social media use contribute to parental stress and anxiety?
- How do parents utilize social media platforms to access information and support?
- What are the negative impacts of social media on parenting?
- In what ways do online parenting communities enhance parents' knowledge and skills?
- What impact does exposure to misinformation have on parenting decisions and behaviors?
- What role does social comparison play in shaping parents' self-perception and parenting practices?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: Social media negatively influences parenting practices by providing access to valuable information, support networks, and community resources.
- H1: Social media positively influences parenting practices by providing access to valuable information, support networks, and community resources.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Higher levels of social media use among parents are not associated with decreased quality of parent-child interactions and diminished family cohesion.
- H1: Higher levels of social media use among parents are associated with decreased quality of parent-child interactions and diminished family cohesion.
1.7 Significance of Study
The significance of studying the impact of social media on parenting extends across various stakeholders, each benefiting in different ways from the insights gained.
- For parents, understanding the influence of social media can help them make informed decisions about their online behavior and its effects on their parenting practices. By recognizing the potential benefits and drawbacks of social media, parents can better navigate digital platforms to enhance their parenting skills, manage stress, and foster positive parent-child interactions. This knowledge can also empower them to set boundaries and use social media in a way that supports their family's well-being.
- For educators and child development professionals, the study provides valuable insights into how social media impacts parenting and child development. This understanding can inform the development of educational programs and resources aimed at helping parents use social media effectively. It also allows educators to address potential issues related to social media in their interactions with families, providing support and guidance to promote healthier digital habits.
- For policymakers, the findings from this research can guide the creation of policies and regulations that address the challenges posed by social media in parenting. By understanding the effects of social media on parenting, policymakers can advocate for measures that protect families from misinformation, support digital literacy initiatives, and promote responsible social media use.
- For social media companies and platform developers, the study highlights areas where their platforms may impact users' lives, both positively and negatively. This understanding can drive the development of features and tools that enhance user experience, support healthy online interactions, and mitigate potential harms. Social media companies can use these insights to improve their platforms and contribute to a safer and more supportive online environment for parents.
- For researchers and academics, this study contributes to the growing body of knowledge on the intersection of social media and parenting. It provides a foundation for further research on related topics, such as the impact of social media on child development and family dynamics. By advancing the understanding of these issues, researchers can explore new areas of inquiry and develop evidence-based strategies to address the evolving challenges of the digital age.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the impact of social media on parenting in Nigeria.
1.9 Limitations of the study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Social Media:
It refers to online platforms and applications that facilitate the creation, sharing, and interaction of user-generated content. Social media includes websites and apps like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, where users can engage in networking, communication, and content sharing (Kaplan & Haenlein, 2010).
Parenting:
The activities, behaviors, and practices involved in raising and nurturing children. This includes the provision of emotional support, guidance, and care, as well as the establishment of rules and boundaries to promote healthy development and well-being (Darling & Steinberg, 1993).
Social Comparison:
It is a psychological process where individuals evaluate their own abilities, achievements, and circumstances by comparing themselves to others. in the context of social media, social comparison often involves comparing one's parenting practices and family life to the idealized portrayals presented by others online (Festinger, 1954).
Misinformation:
It is false or misleading information that is spread, regardless of intent. in the context of social media, misinformation can include incorrect advice or claims about parenting practices, health, and child development that can influence parents' decisions and behaviors (Lewandowsky, Ecker, & Cook, 2017).
Digital Distraction:
It is the phenomenon where engagement with digital devices, such as smartphones or computers, diverts attention away from face-to-face interactions and real-life activities. Digital distraction can impact the quality of parent-child interactions and family time when parents are preoccupied with their online presence (McDaniel & Radesky, 2018).
Parental Stress:
The emotional and psychological strain experienced by parents due to the demands of parenting. Factors contributing to parental stress may include the pressure to meet societal expectations, manage daily responsibilities, and balance work and family life. Social media can exacerbate parental stress by creating unrealistic expectations and amplifying feelings of inadequacy (Kaila & Jaques, 2021).
