Are you a parent who has a teenager who uses the internet? Do you know that your teenager may run into trouble online? Their chances increase when they are using the internet to socialize with friends or make new friends. Children may unintentionally fall victims to child predators or be harassed by those they know online. But how would you find out if your child is being harassed?
Here are four signs your teenager might be having trouble online. If any of these signs apply to your child, you should take action immediately.
1. Everyday, they get on the computer at the same time
Many parents may not be aware that their children and teens can be potential targets for internet predators. Getting to know their targets may happen over the course of several days up to a few weeks. A red flag may be when your child starts accessing the internet each day around the same time, which could imply they’re talking to someone who may have malicious aims.
2. Using the computer is a secretive activity for them
Do your children try to hide what they do online from you when they use the computer? They may be trying to prevent you from seeing what they are doing online if they shut off the computer or put on a game. If your child has direct, personal conversations with a stranger, who may be a child predator, this is a good sign that they should not be doing so online.
3. When they get off the computer, they are very happy
If your child is especially joyful when they log off the web, that may be a cause for concern. It isn’t easy to interpret this as it could just be because of an accomplishment such as finishing a school task. However, if your teenager is interacting with somebody online, they may be in the process of beginning a new relationship which has them overjoyed. Unfortunately, many adolescents do not have the knowledge that danger could be lurking behind the computer – so it’s essential to discuss with them about the risks of internet dating.
4. The fourth reason is that they are very depressed
It has already been mentioned that your child may be very happy when using the internet, but another warning sign is that he or she is depressed, especially when they exit the computer. Often, parents do not realize that other teenagers use the internet for harassment. In the event that your teenager falls out with one of their friends, he or she may be harassed online. Your child may seem depressed, withdrawn, and down if that is the case.
When you are trying to determine if your child is in trouble online, you will want to watch for a few of the four signs mentioned above. As a result, you need to be on the lookout for additional signs, the biggest being a change in behavior. Be sure to speak with your child as soon as possible if you suspect that they have or are about to run into trouble online.
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