Be Careful What you Post! Social Media and Divorce don’t always Mix.
For most people social media serves as both a communication tool and scrapbook. It allows us to communicate with family members and reconnect with long lost friends. We share good and bad moments. But social media has also become an easy way for people to get insight into someone’s schedule, hobbies, and spending habits. In the divorce process, care should be taken so that social media does not impede settlement negotiations.
When confronted with the stress associated with a divorce it might not be a bad idea to reduce or eliminate social media; particularly when children are involved. However, if social media remains in the daily activities, being aware of how it can have an effect on divorce negotiations can be helpful.
Making full and complete financial disclosure is an important part of the divorce process. Online postings may be inconsistent with or contradict the information exchanged; confusing or frustrating the process. People often share photos of expensive items purchased and while eating at expensive restaurants. Some people post vacation itineraries and other travel plans. And pieces made for business purposes may lead to questions about whether the true value of the business has been disclosed. While some of these disclosures may be harmless, they can have unintended consequences. When online postings differ from (or are even perceived to differ from) the information exchanged, the trust between the parties can be affected.
Social media profiles can also affect the dynamics of custody negotiations. For example, a posting by one party that features a friend or significant other with the children of the marriage can create stress for the other party. Especially, if there has not been ample opportunity to discuss how new relationships will be introduced, or, if the new relationship is a surprise. This may also be confusing to the children.
A healthy way to go through the separation and divorce process is to be aware of what you publish, who has access your information and how it could affect your divorce. If you maintain an active social media presence, here are a few considerations to keep in mind:
Be careful of the information you are posting: Do not air “dirty laundry”
Pay attention to the information others are posting:
Know who your “friends” are and be cautious of who you allow to follow you.
Don’t spend too much time online: Try to limit it and take precautions to avoid unintended consequences to you and your family.