Family channel “8 Passengers” run by mother Ruby Franke, has been a topic of recent discussion as Franke was arrested on 6 counts of child abuse in August of 2023. Since then, her eldest daughter Shari has released a memoir and taken part in a documentary detailing the abuse she and her siblings endured when the camera was off. Shari describes the constant surveillance as excruciating, but even worse was her mother's attitude when preparing for videos. Conversations with Ruby would often end in verbal abuse or physical punishments for Shari and her siblings. In Shari’s statements, she chooses not to name her five youngest siblings to protect their privacy. Even though they have all been featured on the family channel, I think this decision shows so much power as she tries to change the narrative that her mother has created. After explaining the truth behind this channel, Shari now intends to focus on her and her family's healing. 

     Many people are questioning the possibility of a normal childhood for these kids if the channel had never existed. This family is just one of the millions on social media; although this particular story had devastating complications, not all family vlogging is bad. Many children have received opportunities or been recognized because of their platform. Children are able to create music, show off their talents and make a name for themselves. Social media can also help create a community for families and help them connect with other people in the same position as them. These can all be positive effects of child-centered social media as long as limits are set and children are not exploited.

     One of my favorite creators has been Bailey Daugh, mom of five. She first went viral on the platform TikTok for posting her youngest son Franklin, who was one of the most adorable babies I’ve ever seen. Her content consisted of photo shoots they took, meals her kids ate and funny moments. Franklin became a social media star and took up most of her content. During their time on TikTok, Franklin was diagnosed with a rare condition called Wiedemann-Steiner Syndrome. Daugh’s platform helped her raise awareness about this condition and get advice from people who have been in this position. 

     Soon after the diagnosis, she transitioned her content away from her kids and more onto her experiences as a mom. I’m not sure if the diagnosis sparked this, but she revealed that this decision was in hopes of protecting the privacy of her kids. Her new content features her fitness journey, mom struggles and a lot of cooking. I’ve enjoyed getting to watch these new types of videos from her and I love knowing the reason behind her change. She still posts Franklin from time to time and updates her following on how he’s doing but keeps his privacy in mind. This is just one of the many creators who have realized the impact this type of publicity has on children. Seeing these individuals hold their family as their priority is very inspiring and creates a great standard for others to follow.      Overall, I think there is a balance between privacy and publicity that many family vloggers do not develop. Protecting children should be the focus of these parents' lives no matter the benefits they miss out on. Although this seems obvious, it is something missing in many channels that we know and watch today.

​

 

​