The recent explosion in technology does not come without possible risksNew technology has many potential benefits for both youth and adults. It allows us to regularly communicate with family and friends. It provides opportunities to make rewarding social connections for those who have difficulty developing friendships in traditional social settings or because of limited contact with same-aged peers. In addition, regular Internet access allows us to quickly increase our knowledge on a wide variety of topics.
However, the recent explosion in technology does not come without possible risks. Many youth as well as adults use electronic media to embarrass, harass or threaten their peers. Increasing numbers are becoming victims of this new form of violence. Although many different terms (cyberbullying, Internet harassment, and Internet bullying) have been used to describe this type of violence, electronic aggression is the term that most accurately captures all types of violence that occur electronically. Like traditional forms of youth violence, electronic aggression is associated with emotional distress and conduct problems at school.
Teenagers are using new media technology, including cell phones, pdas, and the Internet to communicate with other people throughout the world. New communication avenues (text messaging, chat rooms, social networking websites like MySpace and Facebook), have allowed youth to easily develop relationships, some with people they have never met in person.
How do we protect these vulnerable populations? What are the guidelines parents can follow to assist them in discussing this issue with their children? What are some of the safety tips for young children as well as teens? Do we truly understand cyberstalking, blogs, social networks and more? As the presenters share their knowledge and skills and provide workshop participants with guidelines for prevention, we will begin the first steps for prevention programming.
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