The Dark Side of Family Vlogging: The Ruby Franke Case and Beyond
Kineshia Fievel Lassa, Volunteer - EngagePolitica
In a digital age dominated by media, the rise of family vlogging has captivated millions of viewers worldwide. These videos often appear to capture a family's heartwarming moments, but behind the cheerful facade lies a plethora of dangers and complications. The recent case of Ruby Franke, a prominent family vlogger, sheds light on the darker side of this phenomenon and prompts a deeper examination of the surge of family vloggers and the inherent risks.
Ruby Franke and the 8 Passengers
Ruby Franke and her husband Kevin began their family vlog, "8 Passengers," in 2015, amassing millions of followers by sharing their family life in Springville, Utah. However, what seemed like an innocent portrayal of family life turned out to be a façade for severe child abuse. Franke's public downfall began in 2020, when critics started to raise concerns about the family's strict and often harsh parenting methods. Videos surfaced showing Ruby taking away her son's bed for seven months and refusing to pack her daughter a lunch as punishment.
In August 2023, Franke and her podcast partner, Jodi Hildebrandt, were arrested on charges of aggravated child abuse. Authorities responded to a distress call and found Franke's malnourished son with visible wounds. Further investigation revealed that another child was in a similar condition. Franke's arrest led to the deletion of her YouTube channels and brought to light the extreme measures she took under the guise of parenting.
The Surge of Family Vloggers
The popularity of family vlogging has skyrocketed over the past decade. These vloggers share intimate aspects of their daily lives, attracting viewers who are drawn to the authenticity and relatability of their content. However, this surge comes with significant drawbacks. Children featured in these videos often become the primary source of income for their families, blurring the line between parenting and employment. This dynamic can put immense pressure on children to perform and be camera-ready, leading to stress and tension within the family.
The Risks
Privacy Concerns: Children in family vlogs are thrust into the public eye without their consent, compromising their privacy. Personal information such as names, schools, and locations can be easily accessed, exposing them to potential risks, including online harassment and stalking.
Exploitation of Childhood: Family vlogging often requires children to sacrifice genuine moments for the sake of content. This exploitation of their childhood can have long-term effects on their mental and emotional well-being. Embarrassing or sensitive moments captured on camera can resurface later in life, potentially affecting their self-esteem, personal relationships, and future opportunities.
Strained Relationships: The constant presence of cameras can strain family relationships. Favoritism may emerge, as some family members take on more prominent roles in the vlogs, leading others to feel overshadowed or neglected. The pressure to prioritize audience needs over personal well-being can also create conflict within the family.
Lack of Financial Safeguards: Unlike child actors, child influencers in many states do not have the same legal protections regarding their earnings. However, a recent law in Illinois mandates that parents set aside 50 percent of earnings from family content into a trust fund for their child. While this is a step in the right direction, it does not eliminate the risks associated with family vlogging.
Ethical Concerns
The ethical implications of family vlogging are vast. Many children featured in these videos are too young to understand the consequences of their online presence or to provide informed consent. Their participation is often determined by their parents, limiting their control over how their personal lives are shared online. Critics argue that this lack of autonomy is a form of exploitation.
Conclusion
While family vlogging may appear innocent and entertaining, it is crucial to recognize the potential dangers associated with this growing trend. The loss of privacy, childhood exploitation, and strain on relationships are significant concerns that must be addressed. By raising awareness about these risks, we can work towards creating a safer and more respectful digital environment for children.
The case of Ruby Franke serves as a stark reminder of the dark side of family vlogging. It underscores the need for stricter regulations and greater awareness to protect the welfare of children featured in these videos. As viewers, we must remain critical of the content we consume and advocate for the rights and well-being of the most vulnerable members of our society.
References
Ruby Franke Case, Biography https://www.biography.com/crime/a60319774/ruby-franke-story
BBC News https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-66719859
Washington Post https://www.washingtonpost.com/parenting/2023/09/22/family-vlogger-controversy-viewers/