Do parenting influencers have a place on social media?

Both Franke and Hildebrant received identical sentences after pleading guilty in December, with law enforcement describing the ‘concentration camp-like setting’ they had created for Franke’s children.

Claims that Franke herself was brainwashed by online parenting advice demonstrates the very real dangers of platforming parents on the internet.

The ways we choose to parent are incredibly subjective and personal, and placing one person on a pedestal for their parenting style creates a risky hierarchy and a false sense of superiority for figures like Franke.

This only exacerbates the chances of misinformation – if everyone is looking to you for advice, if you’re achieving success and validation on a daily basis, you may be less likely to question your own actions. Add extremist authority figures like Hildebrant into the mix and the world of ‘sharenting’ becomes a landscape of bad advice and – at worst – gravely dangerous consequences.

Critics of ‘sharenting’ have also warned of the dangers of invading a child’s privacy and ethical violations.

As parents focus more on their online image, the risk of neglect and harm to children is increased. Every family is different, and what works for one may not work for another. Yet, influencers like Franke often present their parenting style as the only way, which can make other parents feel inadequate or guilty.

In turn, when a parenting influencer like Franke has a large following, others may be less likely to question their advice.

Franke’s case serves as a reminder of the dangers of ‘sharenting’ and the risks of letting influencers dictate parental behaviour. Social media platforms need to take steps to ensure that content shared by parenting influencers is based on reliable information and promotes healthy parenting practices.

Parents, too, need to be cautious when seeking advice online, making sure to verify information and seek guidance from reputable sources. It goes without saying that the well-being of children should never be compromised for the sake of maintaining an online persona.

‘For the past four years, I’ve chosen to follow counsel and guidance that has led me into dark delusion’ Franke said at the sentencing last week.

‘I was led to believe that this world was an evil place filled with cops who control, hospitals that injure, government agencies that brainwash, church leaders who lie and lust, husbands who refuse to protect and children who need abuse’ she added.

Hildebrandt also offered a statement saying she desired for the children to ‘heal physically and emotionally’.