The idea that there are people out there in cyberspace preying on children and teenagers is a frightening one.
However, what is perhaps just as disturbing is that there are many young teens willingly entering into relationships with these people.
The most common pattern and stereotype when it comes to Internet predators are that of a pedophile maliciously luring children online.
Typically we believe they will misrepresent themselves to try and get close to a child or teen in order to engage in sexual activity either online or in person.
The fact is that while this goes on at an alarming rate there are many adults who are openly forming sexual relationships with teenagers online. They do not misrepresent themselves rather they are clear about there intentions and are looking for sexual relationships with teens.
These cases are generally being recorded in the 13 –17 age bracket.
An increasingly high number of teenagers in this bracket are meeting with adults they have met online for the purpose of having sex.
Many claim to be in love and continue to have relationships with adults they have met on the Internet. This lends us to the idea that teens are also actively seeking out sex online. It is not unusual for teenagers to be curious and explore the boundaries it is however disturbing that they do it in this way.
First and foremost meeting with strangers that you have formed relationships with online is a dangerous business.
These types of meetings have grave consequences and have led to rape and murder on many occasions worldwide. ]
Secondly while teens believe that the relationship is healthy and consensual it is dangerous and potentially life changing. The risks with this type of sexual behavior exceed the normal dangers of teen sex.
As well as STD's and pregnancy they are also risking rape, molestation, kidnapping and death. This is the harsh reality of meeting people online.
For parents dealing with this scenario it just adds another dimension to educating your children about sex.
-
Many teens are curious and have questions about sex; it is better if they feel comfortable talking about it with parents than going to the Internet for information. Talk to your children not only about safe sex but also about relationships and the importance of waiting until you are ready.
-
Peer pressure is a big factor in teenage sex so equip you teen with the knowledge and tools to say no.
-
Talk to your teen’s about Internet safety. They need to be aware of all the possible scenarios they may face online from Internet predators to adult relationships that they are not ready for. Let them know that there is no circumstance where they should ever meet with someone they met online.
-
If you are worried about your teens online activities then parental controls, Internet monitoring and Internet chat monitoring is a good way to stay involved. This could potentially save your child’s life. You can use parental control software discretely so you can monitor your teen without them knowing.
Teenage sex is a universal issue and the Internet has only expanded the problem. After educating your children and monitoring them with parent controls you can rest a little more easily.
There is still a high level of risk for every teen when it comes to sexual relationships so it is important to minimize those risks as much as possible.
Internet parental controls are a sure fire way to ensure your teen is not meeting with adults for sex.
For more information on parental control software and how to keep your child safe while online, visit: http://www.pctattletale.com