Study: Facebook, Myspace not the real danger to kids
Publish On 01-14-2009 , 06:59
If your child uses Face book or Myspace, you probably worry about the danger of sexual predators. Now a new report from a task force created by 49 state attorneys general finds that the danger of sexual solicitation of kids on social networking sites is not a significant problem, despite what we parents think.
Kids who are at risk for predators typically involve youths who knew they were meeting adults for sex rather than being tricked, the Associated Press reports. But parents have a big role to play in keeping an eye on the kids while they’re on the Net as no single technology can adequately protect them, the task force said.
Bullying is a bigger problem, according to the task force. Carolina Parent reported that last year area school counselors ranked bullies among the top ten stressors of kids. If your child is being bullied, seek out his or her school counselor for advice. You’ll find more tips dealing with bullies and other top 10 school stressors, by clicking here.
If you’re still worried about your child’s safety on the Internet, you might want to keep a closer eye on his or her time spent in a chat room or instant messaging. According to an article published in the medical journal Pediatrics last year, kids aged 10 to 15 were more likely to be sexually solicited through IM and chat rooms in a study that asked the question “How Risky Are Social Networking Sites?”
So once again, it seems like the buck stops with us—the parents. We are the best safeguard for our kids even in the virtual world. Pop in to your kids’ rooms now and then to see with whom they’re “talking” on the Internet. You won't be snooping: You're entitled to that information.
--Written by Odile Fredericks, Carolina Parent Web Editor
Interested in the issue of bullying? Attend Project Enlightment's event:
"Bully Proofing" Your Children.
Date: Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2009
Times: 9:30-11:30 a.m.
Location: Project Enlightenment, 501 S. Boylan Ave., Raleigh.
Cost: $ 12 per person; $18 per couple
Phone: 856-7774.
Website: www.projectenlightenment.wcpss.net
Summary: Children who tease others excessively, behave like a bully or allow themselves to become a victim of bullying lack important skills. Learn strategies for promoting resiliency and assertiveness rather than aggressive responses. For families with children ages 3-6. Register online at Project Enlightenment's Web site.
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