In the digital age, social media platforms are a large part of many individuals’ daily lives, providing avenues for communication and self-expression. However, while it provides many advantages, what people post on social media can have negative effects.
This applies to child custody cases as well.
Public display of parenting behavior
Social media platforms offer a public stage where individuals can share snapshots of their lives. Judges in child custody cases may consider these when evaluating a parent’s ability to provide a stable and nurturing environment. Positive interactions with the children, involvement in their activities and responsible parenting showcased on social media can bolster a parent’s case.
Inappropriate content and behavior
Social media posts depicting inappropriate behavior or opinions can reduce a parent’s credibility. Judges may view such content as evidence of an unsuitable home environment. Negative comments, such as ones bashing and deriding the other parent may also put the commenter in a negative light since they may indicate parental alienation or a lack of care for the children’s relationship with the other child.
According to Search Engine Journal, almost five billion people all over the globe participate in social media. It is a highly prevalent tool in both professional and personal arenas, and many people will look up and judge individuals based on what they post on their profiles. Everything posted on social media and made accessible to the public is open for scrutiny, including by judges. What parents post before, during and after a divorce can positively or negatively affect their likelihood of obtaining primary custody.
