Harmful content on the Internet: how parents can counteract its influence on the child

The Internet is a source of invaluable knowledge and entertainment, but it can also hide dangers, including harmful content that can negatively affect the psyche and behavior of children. In this article, we will consider what harmful content is and how parents can prevent its influence on children.

What is harmful content on the Internet? Harmful content means materials that can stimulate dangerous or illegal activity, threaten physical health or life. This includes videos and photos that encourage the use of dangerous substances, can cause injury, and content that normalizes violence, early sex, and risky behavior. Harmful content also includes pornography.

How does harmful content affect children? Exposure to harmful content can have serious consequences for children. It can lead to psychological traumatization, obsessive fears and the normalization of dangerous actions. Children who view harmful content can feel vulnerable and psychologically traumatized.

How does a child signal that something has happened to him on the Internet? Children can signal that they feel uncomfortable due to the influence of content on the Internet in different ways: Behavior: The child can become alienated, lonely, apathetic, lose interest in previously favorite activities and even harm himself.

Mood: Children may note sadness and irritation with the world around them. Appearance: They may look unkempt due to indifference to their appearance, which may impress parents and others. Changes in eating: This may include a decreased or no appetite. Somatic symptoms: These include headache, abdominal pain with no apparent physical cause.

Sleep disturbances: Children may experience insomnia, nightmares or, conversely, long hours of sleep. Skipping lessons or academic failure: A child may avoid learning or deteriorate his academic achievements. Expressions of guilt or shame, suicidal thoughts or intentions: Children may express thoughts that indicate psychological distress.

How can parents prevent the influence of harmful content on their children? If you notice that your child is exposed to harmful content and it is affecting them, here are some actions you can take: Understand your own emotions: Before talking to your child, try to understand your own feelings and emotions.

Talk to your child: Try to talk to your child, find out why they are viewing harmful content and how they feel. Ask for help: If the child needs psychological support, choose a specialist. Contact law enforcement: If your child experiences cyberbullying, threats, or blackmail, report it to law enforcement.

Notify the school: If other students or classmates involve your child in harmful activities over the Internet, notify the school. It is important for parents to be careful and support their children in the online environment, because it can significantly affect their physical and mental health. Understanding and timely response to the situation can help preserve the child's well-being.

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