Internet Safety Rules - Two Major Concerns For Parents With Teens

Internet Safety "" Cyberbulling

Internet Safety "" Cyberbulling

When parents are establishing Internet safety rules for their kids, the subject of cyberbullying and sexting should be addressed. Cyberbullying is a term used to describe bullying by use of the Internet and web enabled devices. Unfortunately it has led to teen suicide in some cases and uniformed parents were left grieving as a result. Children and teens can be threatened by peers or groups of peers with acts of violence, racial hate speech, acts of bribery/ extortion and constant harassment.

This can be done anonymously or by someone impersonating someone else which can add to the drama. A survey conducted at cyberbullying.us on students grades 6-8 showed that victims of cyberbullying felt angry, scared, sad, embarrassed and frustrated as the result of cyberbullying. Concerned parents would be doing their children a service by becoming more informed on this subject.

You should discuss the issue of cyberbullying with your child or teen also as the psychological abuse from it can be harmful if not fatal in extreme cases. If your child or teen is a victim of cyberbullying they may be reluctant to discuss the issue out of fear of retribution from peers. If this is the case it would be beneficial for you to enroll the help of other parents, teachers, counselors, coaches or pastors to help open the lines of communication and aid in solving the problem.

By discussing and educating your children on the subject of cyberbullying, you can help avoid the many potential pitfalls that can result from your child or teen having an online presence. If your child is being victimized by other students do not hesitate to contact their parents and remember to stay cool while discussing the situation. If this fails to bring about positive results then contact your local law enforcement authorities.

Also, in the United States kids and parents can contact their ISP (Internet Service Provider) or the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (www.missingkids.com) and alert them to this Internet abuse. In the U.K. you can contact The Child Exploitation and Online Protection (www.ceop.gov.uk).

Internet Safety for Teens - Sexting

Sexting is a term used for sending sexually suggestive messages by using email, text messages, instant messaging, photos or videos mostly to illicit sexual behavior or for harassment. This can be done through many electronic devices including PC's, notebooks or cell phones. While flirting has always been a natural activity for teens the advancement in technology has added a new twist. When this activity is done online it can invite more trouble than might have been anticipated.

Sexting can leave a trail on the Internet and if shared by peers can lead to unsolicited sexual advances from others, isolation in peer groups, bullying and possible intervention from law enforcement, schools or employers. Sexting has been used as a form of revenge by some teens and has led to violent situations. Talking to your teen about the possible outcomes that can evolve from sexting may help prevent a disastrous situation.

This is why you should talk to your child or teen about the issues of cyberbullying and sexting. Although they may be reluctant to discuss these issues at first or feel like your invading their privacy, they will come to understand that you just have their best interests at heart. Kids do tend to look at parents as more of a role model than you might think or initially be given credit for. Taking a proactive stance as a parent is a must with these serious child safety issues. Take the steps necessary to protect your children online today.

by:Internet Safety Rules

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