Social Networking

Our cyber society seems to have created a whole new set of issues. Many parents have brought up the topic of cyber bulling, using the internet or cell phone to post inappropriate or intimidating comments about others. I have also heard complaints about kids who run up high charges for texting.

I have a Facebook account myself. It's a great way to stay in touch with friends and family, but it's hard not to be concerned about some of the pictures posted by young friends. Some border on being provocative, even suggestive.

It seems to me that a lot of the problems could be solved just by parental supervision. Parents need to constantly moniter what is posted and what is being discussed. We had a social network when I was growing up. I remember evenings when there were as many as a dozen kids gathered on, or around, our front porch. Was the conversation always appropriate? No way, and neither was the behavior at times. But my parents were always within ear shot. Sometimes my mom's face would appear in the door and all it took was her look. Other times my dad would open the door and let us know our conversation was inappropriate. That was quickly followed with an apology. There were other nights my parents joined us. Nobody complained or left. It was an accepted fact that it was their house.

Secondly, there needs to be guidelines. If there's a problem that could mean restrictions. Maybe that means limiting the time on the internet, or controling the number of texts allowed per week. Sure, it might be met with resistence but parents need to remember who is in charge.

Lastly, there needs to be conversation. I know a lot of parents who respond to their kids text with another text. Why not ask for a phone call? It is a cell phone! Why not ask them to call instead of sending a text. That opens the door for a conversation. The tone of voice could also alert us to a potential problem. Parents need to look for other opportunities to have a conversation with their kids as well.

The cyber world we live in is a reality. It is what it is. We can't change it and go back to a simpler time. We can, however, control the influence it has on our lives.