Keeping your teens safe on social media can be tough. However, there are some steps you can take to make things easier.
 If your teenagers spend a lot of time online, whether on their smartphones, laptops, or tablets, then they are part of the 92 percent of American teens who go online every day. A 2015 report released by the Pew Research Center revealed that 75 percent of teenagers have access to an internet-ready smartphone, and almost 25 percent of teens surveyed admitted that they are connected nearly all day. Teens spend much of their time online browsing social media sites like Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, and there are several ways you can help ensure their safety each time they sign on.
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Encourage Them to Avoid Drama
If your teens visit social media sites where commenting is encouraged, then they may encounter people who start arguments simply for the sake of creating drama and may also find themselves involved in the day-to-day problems of their friends and classmates as well. Because most teens are not emotionally equipped to handle this level of interaction, encourage them to avoid arguing with strangers or getting in the middle of situations that do not involve them, even if their intention is to help. This can reduce their stress levels and keep them focused on more positive activities.
Teens Safe on Social Media
Be Social Media Savvy Â
Chances are you might be using a few social media sites yourself, but your teen may be using some new sites you are not aware of. According to USC, today’s social issues are affecting more people than ever, and this may be one of the reasons behind the rise of so many social media sites.
Snapchat, Whisper, and Tumblr are just a few sites you should be aware of. Take the time to learn how these sites work and what kind of content might be available to your kids. The more you know about which sites your teens are using, the better you can monitor them and discover how social issues might be affecting them. If you are interested in learning more about public and social relations careers, click here to learn more about USC’s online mpa program.
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Set Limits on Privacy Â
While your teens are probably striving for increased independence and freedom, giving them unfettered access to the internet may not be the safest way to let them express themselves. One bad decision, rude comment, or inappropriate photo could seriously affect your teen’s future. To better monitor your child’s internet activity, limit laptop or tablet use when he or she is alone and keep a family computer in your living room so your kids are more likely to think twice before visiting certain sites or exchanging racy messages with friends.
Teens Safe on Social Media
Teach Them About Web Security
According to USC Online, the FBI investigates a number of white-collar crimes each year, including fraud cases. There are many different types of fraud schemes that exist online, and your impressionable teenager might not always be able to recognize all of them. Teaching your kids about web security may help them avoid a security breach and protect their valuable personal and financial information.
Teens Safe on Social Media
You cannot monitor your teen 24 hours a day. However, being aware of what they are saying and doing online is an important factor in keeping them safe and healthy.
Teens Safe on Social Media
