As a Parent, Did You Know?

As a parent, did you know?

40% of students at RMS* have found themselves in an uncomfortable situation while using the internet or other technology?

Almost 57% of students at RMS* have been bullied or have witnessed bullying when using social media?

Only 20% of students at RMS* DO NOT use social media?

Based on research, 72% of adolescents access the Internet with a phone**?

Based on research 49% of adolescents accept friend requests from strangers**?

Based on research, 55% of adolescents report meeting people from social media sites in person**?

Do I have your attention?

Social media is here. It is the way that many people, adolescents and adults, communicate. It allows people to share information, learn, and can be a form of entertainment. As great as social media is, it comes with risks as well.

Adolescents, including students at RMS, are sharing personal information and engaging in risky behavior via social media. Sharing passwords is common. Sharing too much information is common. Posting inappropriate pictures, such as pictures of adolescents engaging in self-harm behaviors, engaging in at-risk/destructive behaviors, posting images that are sexual in nature, images that are illegal in nature, etc., is not as common, but are concerning. These pictures and words stay on the Internet, FOREVER. Students are supporting each other in an inappropriate and unsafe manner when viewing these images. For example, adolescents may find that their social media friends are supporting each other to engage in these at-risk and destructive behaviors. There are websites and support groups, via social media, to help adolescents continue to engage in these destructive behaviors. It is all too easy to feed off one another with social media.

Social media, unfortunately, helps acts such as bullying and posting inappropriate pictures, gain momentum. When something is posted on the Internet, that information is accelerated through many, many people. It is no longer one or two people engaging in these behaviors.

As a parent, it is up to you to monitor what your child is doing on the Internet. Show your child that you do care. Take a look at your child’s cell phone, tablet, or computer. Know the lingo that your child, and all adolescents use. It is important to set good examples when using the Internet or social media. It is important, as a parent, to teach your child how to be responsible with social media. Social media can be a great tool. But with great power comes great responsibility.

Below are a few websites that may be helpful:

Cyber Tip Line

Wired Safety Kids

Netsmartz-Online Safety Resources

If at any time you have questions or concerns about your child, please contact either myself or your child’s guidance counselor.

*RMS ScreenagersSurvey Results (2017). Deb Pfitzenmayer. 860 responses

**Risk of Social Media for Teens in an Urban Setting (2014). Global Pediatric Health.