From Book to Instagram, Who is Raising Children? Family in the Digital World

Abstract

The role of media in shaping parenting practices has become increasingly important in contemporary society. Parents' decisions about raising children are shaped by a flood of information from various media sources. The rise of social media, in particular, has introduced new opportunities and challenges for parents by creating an alternative public sphere with interactive features. Among social platforms, Instagram stands out as a preferred source of information for digital parenting. This article examines how parents' sources of information on child-rearing have changed over time, with special attention to Generation Y (Millennials). A phenomenological study, the work draws on data collected through digital ethnography and interviews. The findings show that, while books continue to be regarded as a scientific and trustworthy source within traditional media, parents today may prefer social media for ease of access to information, real-time interactions, visual content, participation in parenting communities, and a sense of belonging and trust. At the same time, social media content is found to create insecurity in parents due to information overload, potential privacy violations, and feelings of inadequacy driven by influencers and peer pressure. This article aims to contribute to the literature by better understanding the dynamics between parents and media in the context of child-rearing.