Skip to content
Search

Latest Stories

Research

Protecting Children in the Digital Age: Navigating Risks and Safeguards

Protecting Children in the Digital Age: Navigating Risks and Safeguards
Photo by Thomas Park on Unsplash

The digital age has transformed how children grow, learn, and interact. Devices such as smartphones, tablets, and laptops offer children access to limitless information, entertainment, and social connections. While technology can enhance learning and creativity, it also poses significant risks. As children spend more time online, they face dangers ranging from cyberbullying and screen addiction to exposure to inappropriate content and online predators. This article explores these risks and offers guidance for parents and guardians on how to protect children in the digital world.

1. Screen Addiction and Its Effects on Development

One of the most prominent concerns in the digital age is screen addiction. Children, particularly younger ones, can quickly become engrossed in the interactive nature of screens, often at the expense of other developmental activities such as physical play and face-to-face socialization.


Research shows that excessive screen time can negatively affect cognitive development, attention spans, and language skills. According to a study published in JAMA Pediatrics, toddlers and preschoolers who spent more time on screens had lower scores in developmental screenings, particularly in communication, motor skills, and problem-solving .

Additionally, prolonged screen exposure can disrupt sleep patterns, particularly when devices are used before bedtime. The blue light emitted by screens can suppress melatonin production, making it harder for children to fall asleep and negatively impacting their overall health .

2. Cyberbullying and Online Harassment

Cyberbullying is a growing issue, with children and teens facing harassment, humiliation, and threats online. Unlike traditional bullying, cyberbullying can happen 24/7 and in any location, as long as a child has access to a device. It can also reach a wider audience, with harmful messages or embarrassing images being shared across social media, leaving lasting emotional damage.

A 2020 survey by the Cyberbullying Research Center found that 37% of students aged 12–17 had experienced cyberbullying at some point in their lives. Victims of cyberbullying are at higher risk for mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts .

Unfortunately, many children who experience online harassment do not report it to parents or teachers, fearing retribution or that their devices will be taken away. This secrecy can exacerbate feelings of isolation and helplessness.

3. Exposure to Inappropriate Content

The internet provides access to vast amounts of information, but not all of it is suitable for children. Despite parental controls, many kids inadvertently encounter inappropriate content, including violent videos, pornography, or harmful ideologies.

Early exposure to such material can be damaging. Studies indicate that children exposed to violent media content are more likely to display aggressive behaviors or become desensitized to violence . Exposure to sexual content can also distort their understanding of healthy relationships and sexuality, leading to risky behaviors later in life.

Even platforms designed for kids, such as YouTube Kids, have faced criticism for failing to filter out inappropriate or disturbing content, exposing children to harmful material that may slip past parental filters .

4. Online Predators and Privacy Risks

One of the most alarming dangers for children in the digital age is the risk of online predators. Social media platforms, online games, and chat rooms offer spaces where predators can target children, posing as peers or offering fake friendships. Grooming—a process where predators build trust with children to exploit them sexually or financially—is a growing concern, particularly as kids spend more unsupervised time online.

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC) reports a significant rise in online enticement and child exploitation cases in recent years. In 2020 alone, the organization received over 21.7 million reports of child sexual exploitation, much of it occurring through online platforms .

Additionally, children may not fully understand the importance of protecting their personal information online. Many are willing to share details such as their location, school, or other identifying information, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation or identity theft. Social media platforms and gaming communities can become entry points for bad actors to engage with children in inappropriate ways.

5. Impact on Mental Health and Social Development

Children's mental health is increasingly affected by their digital lives. The rise of social media platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok has intensified the pressure on kids to present a "perfect" version of themselves. This pressure can lead to feelings of inadequacy, anxiety, and depression, especially as children compare their lives to the carefully curated posts of peers and influencers.

Research published in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found that frequent social media use was associated with poor mental health outcomes in adolescents, particularly in girls. The study noted that social media can disrupt sleep, increase exposure to cyberbullying, and contribute to body image issues, leading to mental health problems .

Moreover, while digital platforms can provide opportunities for social interaction, they can also hinder face-to-face communication skills. Excessive screen use can reduce the quality and frequency of real-life social interactions, impeding the development of essential social skills, such as empathy and active listening.

6. Data Collection and Surveillance

Children are increasingly being targeted by advertisers and tech companies that collect vast amounts of data on their online activities. While many parents assume that children's apps and websites are safe, a 2019 report by Common Sense Media found that many platforms collect personal data, often without parental consent, in violation of child privacy laws such as the Children's Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA).

This data collection can be used to serve targeted ads, manipulate children's spending behaviors in games (such as in-app purchases), and track their habits over time. The long-term effects of growing up under such surveillance remain unclear, but they raise concerns about privacy and consumer rights.

How to Protect Children in the Digital Age

While the digital world poses significant dangers, there are steps parents and guardians can take to safeguard their children:

  1. Establish Clear Rules and Boundaries: Set screen time limits and establish boundaries about which websites, apps, and social media platforms children can access. Make sure these rules are consistent and age-appropriate.
  2. Use Parental Controls and Monitoring Tools: Most devices and platforms offer parental controls that allow you to filter content and monitor usage. Apps such as Qustodio and Net Nanny provide robust options for keeping tabs on children's online activity.
  3. Open Communication: Foster an open dialogue about internet safety. Encourage children to speak up if they encounter something inappropriate or if someone makes them uncomfortable online. Make sure they understand the dangers of sharing personal information.
  4. Teach Critical Thinking: Educate children on how to recognize online dangers such as fake news, scams, and phishing attempts. Critical thinking skills can help children navigate the digital world more safely and responsibly.
  5. Lead by Example: Children model their behavior after their parents. Set a good example by maintaining healthy screen habits, engaging in real-world activities, and putting devices away during family time.

The digital age offers both incredible opportunities and significant dangers for children. While technology can enhance learning, creativity, and socialization, it also introduces risks such as screen addiction, cyberbullying, and online predators. By taking proactive steps to educate, monitor, and communicate with children, parents and guardians can help ensure that their digital experiences are safe and enriching.

Sources:

  1. Madigan, S., Browne, D., Racine, N., Mori, C., & Tough, S. (2019). Association Between Screen Time and Children's Performance on Developmental Screening Tests. JAMA Pediatrics. Retrieved from JAMA.
  2. Patchin, J. W., & Hinduja, S. (2020). Cyberbullying: Identification, Prevention, and Response. Cyberbullying Research Center. Retrieved from Cyberbullying.org.
  3. Gentile, D. A., & Bushman, B. J. (2012). Violent Video Games and Aggression. Pediatrics, 129(2), 252-259.
  4. NCMEC. (2020). Online Enticement Reports Rise in 2020. National Center for Missing & Exploited Children. Retrieved from NCMEC.
  5. Kelly, Y., Zilanawala, A., Booker, C., & Sacker, A. (2019). Social Media Use and Adolescent Mental Health: Findings From the UK Millennium Cohort Study. The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health. Retrieved from The Lancet.
  6. Common Sense Media. (2019). Privacy Risks in Children's Apps. Retrieved from Common Sense Media.

More Stories

A Deadly E. coli Outbreak Spread Across 15 States — and the FDA Kept Us in the Dark
File:FDA Sign & Bldg 21 at Entrance (5204602349).jpg - Wikimedia ...

A Deadly E. coli Outbreak Spread Across 15 States — and the FDA Kept Us in the Dark

As Americans continue to trust that the food on their plates is safe, troubling revelations suggest that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) may be keeping critical information under wraps. Multiple E. coli outbreaks have sickened dozens—some severely—while the agency has withheld key details such as food sources, affected regions, and even the names of implicated suppliers. In a system built on public trust and transparency, these omissions raise urgent questions: Why is the FDA staying silent, and what are the consequences for consumers?

Delayed Disclosures and Withheld Information

In December 2024, the FDA acknowledged an outbreak of E. coli O157:H7 that affected at least 67 people. Despite initiating traceback efforts, the agency failed to disclose key details such as where the cases occurred or which foods were being investigated.

Keep ReadingShow less
No, Vaccines Don’t Cause Autism. But the Lie Is Still Spreading
text
Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash

No, Vaccines Don’t Cause Autism. But the Lie Is Still Spreading

Despite overwhelming scientific evidence to the contrary, the myth that vaccines cause autism remains one of the most damaging health misconceptions of our time. Somehow, no matter how many scientific studies are conducted, no matter how many papers are published, and no matter how much correct information is spread, "vaccines cause autism" is too widely accepted. The origin of this belief is rooted in a discredited study, but its consequences have rippled through society for decades—undermining public trust, sparking outbreaks of preventable diseases, and endangering countless lives.

The Origins of the Vaccine-Autism Myth

The modern iteration of this myth began in 1998 with a study published by Andrew Wakefield in The Lancet, which suggested a link between the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine and autism in children (Wakefield et al., 1998). The study was based on just 12 children, lacked a control group, and relied on anecdotal parental reports. It was later revealed that Wakefield had financial conflicts of interest and had manipulated the data.

Keep ReadingShow less
Dr. Nathalie Johnson Honored with the Impact Award at NCoBC 2025

NCBC President Jennifer Plichta, MD, MS, FACS, CGRA, presents Dr. Nathalie Johnson, MD, FACS, with the 2025 Impact Award.

Dr. Nathalie Johnson Honored with the Impact Award at NCoBC 2025

Las Vegas, NV – March 27, 2025 – Dr. Nathalie Johnson, a distinguished leader in breast cancer care and advocacy, was presented with the prestigious Impact Award at the NCoBC 2025 34th Interdisciplinary Breast Center Conference, held at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. The NCBC Impact Award recognizes individuals whose pioneering contributions have significantly advanced breast cancer care, research, and advocacy.

The award was presented to Dr. Johnson by NCBC Board President, Jennifer Plichta, MD, MS, FACS, CGRA, in recognition of her unwavering commitment to improving breast cancer treatment, education, and patient care.

Keep ReadingShow less
Is It Just Stress or Something More? Understanding Hormonal Imbalances

Is It Just Stress or Something More? Understanding Hormonal Imbalances

In our modern day, many people ignore stress as part of the everyday normal. Severe feelings of being overwhelmed by work deadlines, financial crises, personal responsibilities, etc can cause numerous emotional and physical problems. If the problems of chronic fatigue, mood swings, weight fluctuations, or even irregular periods continue despite the implementation of stress management systems, it is perhaps wise to consider the possibility of a hormonal imbalance.

A person's hormonal health is very central to their health. The body relies on a network of glands called the endocrine system designed to produce and regulate hormones, and this system affects nearly every physiological function within a human, their metabolism, their mood, and, even their immune response. If there is some kind of disruption to this balance, the outcomes can go beyond basic stress symptoms. How does one differentiate between stress discomfort and the more sinister internal hormone imbalance? Here, we will answer some important questions concerning stress discomfort, and hormonal health.

Keep ReadingShow less

Recent Ban of Red Dye 3 and Its Complicated History

I don't know about everyone else, but there is nothing better than a maraschino cherry on top of an ice cream sundae. I'm also a sucker for ice cream and candy, but it seems like some of my favorite foods are soon going to be getting a makeover. For decades, Red Dye 3 (also known as erythrosine) has been a contentious ingredient in food and consumer products. Recently, this synthetic dye has been banned in the United States, sparking significant public discourse about food safety and regulatory practices. There is a history of Red Dye 3. There are reasons for its prohibition, and its implications for consumers and manufacturers.

What is Red Dye 3?

Red Dye 3 is a synthetic food coloring derived from petroleum. It has been widely used in candies, baked goods, beverages, cosmetics, and medications to impart a bright red hue. Despite its aesthetic appeal, concerns about its safety have loomed for years. it is important to note that Red Dye 3 isn't limited to just foods. It can also be found in medications such as Gabapentin (a nerve pain medication), Prozac (an antidepressant), and Acetaminophen.

Keep ReadingShow less
×