A Parent’s Guide to Internet Safety for Kids

 

Many studies reveal how the internet affects the mental health of children.

The impact of the internet on the mental health of children is a complex and nuanced issue. Here are some key ways the internet can affect children's mental health:

There are some positive as well as negative impacts.

Positive impacts:

Access to information and educational resources can support learning and development. Opportunities for social connection and community building can reduce isolation. Exposure to diverse perspectives and ideas that can broaden horizons. Outlets for self-expression and creativity.

Negative impacts:

Excessive screen time and internet use can disrupt sleep, physical activity, and face-to-face social interaction. Exposure to cyberbullying, trolling, and other harmful online behaviors can contribute to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Access to inappropriate or disturbing content that may be psychologically distressing. Social comparison and feelings of inadequacy from seeing idealized content on social media.  Addiction-forming behaviors from excessive internet and social media use. The degree of impact often depends on factors like the child's age, maturity, mental health, and parental mediation and guidance. While the Internet provides many benefits, it's important for parents and caregivers to monitor and moderate children's online activities to mitigate potential mental health risks. A balanced approach that promotes healthy online and offline activities is generally recommended.

Teaching kids about Internet safety

In today's world, the pace of change is rapid, and parents cannot keep up.  On the other hand, our children thrive on new technology and social media. 

If you want to learn more about technology, the internet, and computers I recommend this website

Stay sane and keep those little ones safe.  Courtesy of  Nicole You may reach her at  nicole@onlinesafetymasters.com

ref:

Title: "The Impact of Digital Technology on Children's Well-Being"Authors: Przybylski, A. K., & Weinstein, N.Journal: Pediatrics, 140(Supplement 2), S86-S91. Publication Date: 2017

Title: "The Impact of Social Media Use on Children's and Adolescents' Mental Health" Authors: Hollis, C., Livingstone, S., & Sonuga-Barke, E.Journal: The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health, 4(5), 337-343. Publication Date: 2020 Key Findings:

 Authors: Hale, L., & Guan, S.Journal: Child Development, 86(1), 45-63.Publication Date: 2015 Key Findings:

 Title: "The Impact of Excessive Internet and Smartphone Use on Mental Health: A Systematic Review" Authors: Király, O., Potenza, M. N., Stein, D. J., King, D. L., Hodgins, D. C., Saunders, J. B., ... & Demetrovics, Z.Journal: Journal of Behavioral Addictions, 9(4), 1031-1064. 2020Publication Date:  

If you want to read more about this issue. 

https://zentrointernet.com/a-parents-guide-to-internet-safety-for-kids/