In light of recent social media news stories we plan to make more of an effort to keep parents informed of current social media concerns.
According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), in their report Clinical Report—The Impact of Social Media on Children, Adolescents, and Families, 84 percent of adolescents in America have a Facebook account. In the article “Social media networking: Parent guidance required” published in the Brown University Child and Adolescent Behavior Letter, Aditi Hajirnis M.D. states that over 60% of 13 to 17-year-olds have at least one profile on social media, with many spending more than two hours a day on social networking sites.
Although there can be benefits to teens and preteens using social media, there can also be serious downsides to all this online sharing. The AAP states:
“The intensity of the online world is thought to be a factor that may trigger depression in some adolescents. As with offline depression, preadolescents and adolescents who suffer from Facebook depression are at risk for social isolation and sometimes turn to risky Internet sites and blogs for “help” that may promote substance abuse, unsafe sexual practices, or aggressive or self-destructive behaviors.”
With so many preteens and teens having devices which potentially give them unlimited access to social media, we want to keep parents informed of developments and news so you can discuss these with your child and take any necessary measures to protect your child, after all, you know them best!
We will share news as we get it on Facebook, so following us on Facebook will be the best place to stay current and updated.
Parenting Magazine also has great tips for social networking and online safety tips to protect your children on the internet.
The graphic below is a handy guide to current age restrictions on many of the main social media sites.