Social media is no longer an enemy of parents, according to a survey that recorded the feedback of parents on the popularity of social media sites among their children. However, majority og parents were ready to let their children explore the social networks only after 13 years of age.
"The Healthy Perspectives: Parents, Kids and Social Media" report released by Children's Mercy Hospitals and Clinics in Kansas City found a majority of parents (83 percent) thinking the social media like Twitter, Facebook and You Tube benefitting their children - balancing or outweighing the observed risks. The online survey included more than 700 parents.
Nearly 72 percent of surveyed parents were of the opinion that child's participation on social networking websites will prepare their children to survive and succeed in the modern technology world. For some others, the trend made their children more open-minded, creative and worldly viewpoint (57 percent) and helping to develop their ability to collaborate with others (59 percent).
"The results of this report are surprising, given the attention paid to the dangers of social media for children," Daryl Lynch, Section Chief, Adolescent Medicine, at Children's Mercy, said in a news release. "There are benefits and risks for kids online, so we recommend moderation when it comes to social media use and online play. Exposing kids to a variety of activities provides balance and a strong foundation to grow into well-rounded adults."
Apart from these benefits, there were some parents who were concerned about the other side of the trend. More than half of the participants (68 percent) didn't support the idea of their children exploring these social networks before turning 13. Some others were worried about sexting or other sexual behavior of their children (49 percent). Other major concerns were about cyber bullying, verbal physical abuse and depression and social withdrawal.
Monitoring and controlling the children's online activities are some of the best ways to prevent any negative impact of the internet and the social media on children.
"Development at a younger age is closely tied to social skills and building relationships, so it is natural that parents of younger children are concerned about bullying and depression, both of which can impact socialization," Dr. Edward Christophersen, clinical psychologist at Children's Mercy, said. "The most important thing a parent can do is set expectations for the child's privilege of using e-mail, text and social media tools, and then monitor, monitor, monitor."
