Elizabeth Van Abel and Bryan Wright required no introduction. Because Sue Panek had done so before she left. The topic is Cyber-Bullying.
Americans spend an average of 11 hours per day on "screen time" for non-work related activities. To me, a Luddite stuck in the 1980's with my flip phone, that in ieself is a huge problem. The speakers, though, provided additional warning signs of potential dangers. Over importance in one's life. Negative impacts to one's life. Mood alterations. Withdrawal
symptoms.
Most kids are not getting into trouble online. But there are potential dangers. 88% of teens have access to a laptop computer. 72% have access to a smartphone. 38% believe they could not go a day without online access.
Social media allows for fast spread of information, easy access, connection world-wide. But also allows access to inappropriate material and cyber-bullying.
Bryan Wright
There is a huge problem of loneliness with many teens. They have worldwide access. But few or no personal relationships. Many resort to sexting to "develop a sense of sexual identity." Or are sexually curious. The danger comes with online predators.
That can lead to cyber-bullying, That differs from regular bullying because "it spreads faster, has a wider audience, follows victims home, don't feel safe at school, and can be hard to prove." Warning signs include the loss of friends, illness (real or feigned), difficulty sleeping, declining grades, or other signs of withdrawal.
Elizabeth Van Abel
What can parents do? The key is open lines of communication between parent and child. Parents should be pro-active, not reactive, if they observe the warning signs. Elizabeth suggested that parents know passwords their children are using, in order to monitor usage. "Trust, but verify." Limits should be place on usage. Family time is important.
The speakers mentioned that Reach works with 20,000 individuals. And there is a waiting list. Staffing issues prevent helping even more.
As Editor, I can say I am glad I am not raising children in today's environment. I do nit envy my children dealing with these issues with my grandchildren. Truly frightening. Very good presentation.