Parents need training on dangers of teen online communities
Issued : Monday 8 January, 2007
A programme which would enable parents fully understand and manage the risks associated with their children becoming involved with online communities such as Bebo, should be set up by the Government, Labour's Kathleen O'Meara has said.
"It seems to me that youngsters are themselves quite well clued in as to how to behave safely and responsibly when using services such as Bebo, but that their parents are not was well versed in the risks and how to avoid them.
"The grooming of teenagers by older men; bullying; intimidation; the inappropriate posting of information by other teenagers; and victimisation are among the dangers that can arise.
"Most teens appreciate that there are risks involved, and behave in a way that minimises these risks. However there are some who may not fully understand the potential threats and unless the adults in their lives, particularly their parents, are well versed in how these communities work, and how unscrupulous people could exploit users, they could end up in danger.
"The technology is so new and it changes so rapidly that anybody over the age of 30 can be at a disadvantage. There is a strong argument for organising some form of training programme for parents which could be delivered to parents through our schools. Bebo has indicated some willingness to tackle these risks and the company and its competitors should be involved in the funding of any such programme."
