Investigation of parents' sharenting behaviors of their children with developmental disabilities

The aim of the study is to investigate the concept of sharenting, which refers that parents of children with developmental disabilities make information about their children public by sharing their children on social media, in the context of Türkiye and reveal their views on this issue. For this purpose, case study design, one of the qualitative research methods that provides the oppurtunity to examine the existing situation in depth, was used in the research. Data were collected through observation, semi-structured interviews, focus group interviews and researcher diary techniques. The findings obtained from the data analyzed inductively showed that parents gained social support through social media sharings, created a solidarity network, enabled archiving, provided new knowledge through the knowledge and experiences of other parents, and tried to ensure social awareness. However, it was also observed that parents do not have enough knowledge and awareness about the risks that may occur as a consequence of sharing their children on social media, unconsciously expose their children to some risks both online and offline, and use social media for different interests. In line with usage knowledge and there is a significant need for education. Further research should develop intervention programs to teach parents about safe social media use and children's online safety.