Childhood exposed, parents on trial

the limits between sharing and protecting in the digital age

Abstract

This study analyzes the contemporary phenomenon of "sharenting" - the systematic exposure of children and adolescents on social media by their own parents - and its legal implications in the scope of Brazilian civil liability. The main objective is to examine the extent to which parental authority can be exercised in the face of the growing digital exposure of minors, focusing on the civil liability of parents in cases of excess. The methodology adopted is characterized as qualitative, exploratory and descriptive research, with a documental and bibliographic approach, based on systematic analysis of national legislation, critical review of specialized doctrine and examination of judicial decisions from Brazilian courts in the period from 2018 to 2024. The results revealed that Brazilian jurisprudence is still incipient on the subject, but already demonstrates a tendency to recognize the civil liability of parents when exposure violates children's fundamental rights, especially in cases with commercial motivation. The analysis identified a conflict between fundamental rights that must be resolved through the application of the principle of proportionality, always prioritizing the best interests of the child. It is concluded that protecting minors on social networks requires ethical, legal and affective responsibility from parents, requiring the development of specific regulatory frameworks and clear judicial guidelines to curb abuse and ensure the healthy development of children in the digital environment.