According to reports, human trafficking propositions are often made through the world wide web, and cyber-bullying is causing many adolescents and teens emotional distress, even causing suicides. The yearning for an infamous celebrity lifestyle and overnight fame is also a problem among teens on social media, just look at Miss Cash Me Outside.
If you’re struggling to make sense of it all, and even more so to help your children understand the power of social media, here are a few tips to share with them.
Keep it Confidential– Express who you are without telling all of your personal business. Discussing things like family issues and relationships should be minimal, or not shared at all. People in general tend to share too much information on social media. Because teens are not as mentally mature as they think they are, remind them to talk about their problems verbally or keep a journal. Once the information is out there, you don’t get to pick and choose who has access to it.
Age Matters– Your children should post pictures that are age-appropriate. Dressing in clothes that contradict their age can send out the wrong message. Language in posts and private messages should also be age-appropriate.
Is It Accurate – If you are not sure something is true, do not post it. We must teach our kids that everything does not deserve a comment or a reaction, especially if you do not have all the information to form an opinion. Sometimes, it’s simply not even our business to mention at all.