There has not been so much alarm about the safety of children online to the point that one is tempted to believe all the stories that appear on the Internet about children. Agreed! There are pedophiles and cyber stalkers. However, they do not exist on all internet pages. There are still some good ones for children online and this has led some experts to defend the argument against 'techno-panic mentality'. To adequately protect these children, one must be aware of the facts about the safety of children.
Myth: Social media makes children become cyber stalkers.Truth: There are several reasons why a child could be involved in cyber bullying. Social media is just one of those ways and maybe a catalyst for dirty work.The fact is that children who engage in this type of behavior are either bullies in person, or have an underdeveloped sense of empathy. They could be having a crisis at home, at school or socially. These are some of the things that could have triggered your actions.Although, this is no excuse for their actions, however, knowing these things could help teachers, parents, and guardians to determine symptoms early enough and cut off the roots before they get out of control.
Myth: children instructing not to talk to strangers is the best way to guarantee their safety online.Truth: teaching children how to recognize predatory behavior will help them get rid of bad advances.This age 'technology' has made it possible for children so young like 8 to interact online. Therefore, it is necessary to know and recognize the line between appropriate and inappropriate conversation. Children often feel attracted to their friends in sexual conversations. They need to know when to say no and end a conversation. Go beyond informing them about the danger in interaction with strangers to tell about statements or questions that are not appropriate.For example, "Are you male or female?", "Where do you live?", "What are you wearing?", "We are going to have a private conversation." Teach children to avoid emotions online. Chat rooms are easy ways for explicit and material sexual conversations.
Myth: Social media drives children away.Truth: Most children believe that social media strengthen their relationships. Children want to have fun and socialize normally and the Internet has provided a better platform for them to do so. According to Pew Internet Research Project, most children normally socialize online. The following statistics is proof of that.• About 57% of teenagers make new friends online• About 84% of children who pay for online network games feel more connected to the friends they play• 68% of social media users teenagers have received support during difficult times from their online friendsAlso, there are children who have fought cyberbullying and have advocated for other good causes that use the Internet. These are the ones that keep suffocating these myths and establishing a better perception of online presence for children and teenagers.
