A senior official is warning parents against filming and sharing videos of disciplining their children online, citing serious psychological risks.

Feona Richards, Director of the Family and Social Services Division, said the practice of public shaming may appear effective in the short term but can cause lasting damage to a child’s self-esteem and mental health.

She cautioned that posting such content on social media normalizes harmful parenting and may lead to depression, suicidal thoughts, and the perpetuation of abusive disciplinary cycles.

Richards urged parents to adopt private, supportive methods that correct behaviour without compromising a child’s dignity or emotional wellbeing.