new research… This might be a little lengthy for some of you but I think it is valuable information. Recently new research came out regarding how to talk to teens about Internet Safety. It talks about how teens are not listening to the warnings because they are not delivered to them in a manner they accept. I have picked out some of the most important information from the article. I think as a teacher and parent this is very valuable.
Internet Safety Education for Teens: Getting It Right A growing number of people are promoting Internet safety education in an effort to help keep youngsters safe from Internet sex offenders. But some of the information in their lectures, pamphlets, videos, and web sites does not reflect what researchers have learned about the important features of these crimes. Research suggests that teenagers are the primary victims of Internet sex crimes and that common teenage vulnerabilities– interest in sex, romance, adventure, independence – are what gets them in trouble3. Parents can be helpful, but the research suggests that the most vulnerable youth are ones who are having conflicts with their parents. So we need to reach teenagers directly with messages that are credible. This means not talking down to them; being familiar with their culture; acknowledging their familiarity with the Internet; and respecting their developmentally appropriate aspirations for independence, new relationships and accurate information.
Crimes Against Children Research Center The mission of the Crimes against Children Research Center (CCRC) is to combat crimes against children by providing high quality research and statistics to the public, policy makers, law enforcement personnel, and other child welfare practitioners.
These tips were published by the CCRC and use language they believe to be more conducive to teens and their understanding and acceptance of them. I have the actual article and handout of the tips if anyone would like a copy. |
INTERNET TIPS FOR TEENS 1) Be smart about what you post on the Web and what you say to others. The Web is a lot more public and permanent than it seems. 2) Provocative and sexy names and pictures can draw attention from people you don't want in your life. 3) Sexy pictures can get you into trouble with the law. If you are underage, they may be considered child pornography, a serious crime. 4) Be careful what you download or look at, even for a laugh. Some of the images on the Internet are extreme, and you can't "unsee" something. 5) Going to sex chat rooms and other sex sites may connect you with people who can harass you in ways you don't anticipate. 6) Free downloads and file-sharing can put pornography on your computer that you may not want and can be hard to get rid of . Any pornography that shows children or teens under 18 is illegal child pornography and can get you in big trouble. 7) Adults who talk to you about sex online are committing a crime. So are adults who meet underage teens for sex. Some teens think it might be fun, harmless or romantic, but it means serious trouble for everyone. It's best to report it. 8) Don't play along with people on the Web who are acting badly, taking risks and being weird. Even if you think it's harmless and feel like you can handle it, it only encourages them and may endanger other young people. 9) Report it when other people are acting weird and inappropriately or harassing you or others. It's less trouble just to log off, but these people may be dangerous. Save the communication. Contact the site management, your service provider, the CyberTipline or even the police. 10) Don't let friends influence your better judgment. If you are surfing with other kids, don't let them pressure you to do things you ordinarily wouldn't. 11) Be careful if you ever go to meet someone you have gotten to know through the Internet. You may think you know them well, but they may fool you. Go with a friend. Tell your parents. Meet in a public place. Make sure you have your cell phone and an exit plan. 12) Don't harass others. People may retaliate in ways you don't expect. 13) You can overestimate your ability to handle things. It may feel like you are careful, savvy, aware of dangers, and able to manage the risks you take, but there are always unknowns. Don't risk disasters.
|
