Although studies have found only two out of 1,500 young people have been sexually victimized by someone they met online, these numbers don’t mean a thing when it’s your child that’s been victimized.
These numbers need to be kept in perspective, as:
“A recent study by a leading software manufacturer indicated that a third have cleared their browser history to hide their online activity from their parents. More than half of teens have given out personal information to strangers, and more than a third of girls have sent their photo to a stranger they met on the Internet.”
When you compare these statistics, it would seem as though the definition of “victimized” is a narrow one.
Phil Cooke recently posted 5 tips to make sure you’re not a statistic of any kind.
1. Don’t overreact
Don’t freak out! Take a deep breath, maybe let yourself think about things for a few hours or a day–depending on the urgency. Think ‘love’, not ‘lecture.’
2. Communicate
This starts before trouble begins. If your communication channels are healthy to begin with, it makes a world of a difference.
3. Keep computers in the open
Don’t let you kids use their computer alone in their room. I don’t care how ‘weird’ or difficult it may be to set your teens computer in a public space in your house, you need to do it! Laptop? Same thing. No computers allowed in private spaces!
4. Seek good advice if you find pornography
If you suspect your teen or children are viewing online pornography, before you approach the situation, seek good advice. You might consider starting with xxxchurch.com. It’s important to remember this isn’t a technology issue, it’s a sin issue.
5. Be aware and mindful
Be involved in your kids lives–both on and offline.
BONUS — Consider using something like OpenDNS. It will keep your whole family safe–even you.
[via Phil Cooke | Image via ptufts]
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