Researchers interviewed 251 high school students about how they use social networks, instant messaging, and other means to access friends online. Only five percent said they had friends they knew only from online exchanges. Most teens use the Internet to interact with their existing friends.
Dr. Stephanie Reich, author of the study, said that her research indicates that sexual predators would have a harder time approaching teenagers than their parents may believe. Most young people do not seek out friendships with strangers on the Internet.
Teen online safety remains a pressing concern among parents and pediatric mental health experts, who worry about issues ranging from cyberbullying to video game addiction.
Labels: teenagers, online, internet
Posted By: Aspen/CRC
