More and more adults are asking their children for their consent before posting a photo of them.

This practice is not yet widespread, but it is gradually growing. In this day and age, when any content is likely to be reposted by malicious individuals and the spread of an online photo is becoming uncontrollable, British media are urging us not to post any photos without first asking for the approval of the people who appear in them. Whether they feel uncomfortable with their image or fear potential repercussions, they are completely free to choose not to be revealed, especially on profiles they do not control.

Conflicts on this topic are common: people who demand the removal of a photo in which they appear often encounter misunderstanding from their interlocutors. “The suffering experienced is not due to vanity to look bad,” explains Dr. Max Blumberg, psychologist and member of the British Psychological Society. “It’s a real psychological reaction to losing control over how one is perceived. Brain studies have shown that posting a photo without permission activates the same neural pain centers that respond to physical injury or social rejection. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable among introverts, who prefer controlled interactions and find that unexpected photos disrupt their coping strategies in society. […] Being pushed into unwanted visibility by others’ posts is psychologically destabilizing,” says Bloomberg.

The consent of the person concerned is essential, and it should not be excused, as this step puts them in more than just an uncomfortable situation. Everyone has the right to dislike the way they look in a particular photo, whether that feeling seems justified or not. Aging, insecurity, gender identity issues, general malaise: the reasons for not wanting to appear online—or at least not without confirmation—are numerous and undeniable.

In some cases, the consequences can be serious, primarily psychological, but not only. You wouldn't want to become the source of another Coldplay scandal by inadvertently revealing the emotional connection between two people. You wouldn't want a photo taken of you drinking to fall into the hands of an employer or boss who isn't inclined to party. In a word, think carefully. And ask for permission. I BGNES