Part 4/14:
Experts and parents alike acknowledge the value of online communities for normalization and emotional support. Sharing experiences with others going through similar challenges can alleviate loneliness. Conversely, negative experiences or misinformation can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, compounding the stress.
Real Stories from Parents: Benefits and Drawbacks
Several parents shared their journeys:
- Roxanne and Sam, new parents to Eevee, found the internet empowering during her pregnancy, helping them gather relevant information and connect with a community. Still, they emphasized the importance of filtering noise and recognizing the limits of online content.