Watching North West’s Online Moments: A Reflection on Age and Agency
In today’s digital age, it’s no surprise that children are becoming more and more active on social media. From YouTube channels to Instagram accounts, kids are creating content and sharing their lives with the world. One of the most talked-about and followed young social media stars is none other than North West, the eldest daughter of Kim Kardashian and Kanye West.
At just 8 years of age, North West has managed to capture the attention of millions with her adorable and often hilarious online moments. From her dance videos to her fashion sense, she has become a fan favorite and has even landed her first solo magazine cover at the age of 5. However, while her online presence may bring joy to many, it also raises some uncomfortable questions about age and agency.
One of the main concerns is the level of control and consent that North has in her online presence. As a child, she may not fully understand the implications of sharing her life with the world and the potential impact it may have on her in the future. This raises the question, at what age do we consider children capable of making such decisions for themselves?
It’s no secret that social media can be a double-edged sword, especially for young children. On one hand, it can provide a platform for creativity and self-expression, but on the other hand, it can also expose them to cyberbullying and negative comments. North’s parents have been criticized for exploiting their daughter’s image for their own gain, but is it fair to place the blame solely on them?
It’s important to acknowledge that North comes from a family that is constantly in the public eye and her parents have built their careers around sharing their lives with the world. It’s natural that they would want to include their children in that aspect of their lives. However, as North grows older, it’s crucial for her parents to consider her own wishes and boundaries when it comes to her online presence.
Another aspect of North’s online moments that raises questions is the potential pressure it may put on other children to be constantly in the spotlight and maintain a certain image. With the rise of influencer culture, there is a growing pressure on children to live up to certain beauty standards and constantly present a perfect and curated life on social media. This can have a detrimental effect on their self-esteem and mental health.
As adults, we have the responsibility to protect and guide children, especially in the digital world where boundaries can easily be blurred. We must recognize that children have limited understanding of the long-term consequences of their online presence and it’s our duty to ensure that they are not exploited or harmed in any way.
In the case of North West, it’s clear that she has a loving family who adores her and wants the best for her. However, it’s important for them to constantly reassess their approach to her online presence and involve her in the decision-making process as she grows older. Parents should also have open and honest conversations with their children about the potential risks and responsibilities of being active on social media.
As for us, the viewers and followers of North’s online moments, we should also be mindful of the impact our comments and reactions may have on a young child’s self-perception. Let’s celebrate her creativity and cuteness, but also be mindful of the bigger picture and the potential consequences of constantly putting a child in the public eye.
In conclusion, watching North West’s online moments may bring us joy and entertainment, but it also highlights the complex issues surrounding children’s agency and online presence. Let’s use this as an opportunity to start important conversations and ensure that children’s well-being is always a top priority. After all, they are the future and it’s our responsibility to protect and guide them in this ever-evolving digital landscape.
