Divorce and social media

The rise of social media in people’s daily lives is giving estranged spouses just one more thing to argue about during a divorce proceedings. This is particularly true when children are involved. A mother may not appreciate her ex-husband posting pictures of their children on his online dating profile. A man may take offense to a woman creating a Facebook profile for their unborn child, complete with an ultrasound profile picture. Unless the child is being harmed, each parent generally may handle their child’s social network presence however they deem appropriate. That’s why it’s important to address issues related to the children’s online exposure as part of a child custody agreement.

A blanket rule prohibiting either parent from sharing anything about the children on any social media site likely would be viewed as too restrictive. The reality is social media has become a convenient way to share information and photos of the kids with extended family members, especially those who live far away. But it is appropriate and prudent for a parent to seek some boundaries regarding what is shared about their children and with whom.

First, it is reasonable to request that the custody agreement set some expectations regarding online privacy. For example, the parties could agree that the children’s photos will be shared only with certain people and not be posted publically. Additionally, the agreement might address the types of information that can or cannot be shared. Finally, each parent should be mindful of posting anything that would reflect poorly on their own parental judgment like photos or status updates that could embarrass or upset the child.

If you are concerned about what your ex-spouse is posting about your children, a knowledgeable divorce attorney can assist your efforts to set some parameters.

Source: St. Louis Post-Dispatch, “Who gets custody of the Facebook profile info after a divorce?,” Aisha Sultan, Dec. 31, 2012