~ Samuel Lalbelsang
Social Networking Sites(SNS) like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc. have become exceedingly popular in recent years. This increased popularity has caused concern among many parents about how these sites are affecting their children.
Parents are becoming aware of many disadvantages of social networking aites including their affect on a child's ability to concentrate. Constant online communication affects children making it difficult for them to communicate and concentrate when away from the screen. It is therefore, important for parents to monitor their children's online social interactions and place a limit on how long they can spend on the computer or cellphones.
Social networking affects children to the extent that social networks sometimes encourage interpersonal relations that are unrealitic. A child's online interactions with people who could influence them in a negative manner may expose them to guite serious threats and potential dangers.
Sometimes a child's online social interactions may not be appropriate. The luxury of hiding behind a screen where they are unknown gives them the opportunity to say anything. This freedom could result in fights or online bullying.
Despite their disadvantages, social networking sites have many advantages. Children may make some good friends online, become aware of current affairs, and get career guidance. A child's online interactions, if properly monitored can be beneficial to their career and life.
Social networking affects communication among children, which can be both negative and positive. The disadvantages of socual networking sites can be offset by having some kind of plan in place where parents can supervise their children's internet activities. Children should be educated on how online communication affects them and about the negative effects their online social interactions may have.
