The computer and Internet allow children to go places no children have gone before and some of these places are toxic waste dumps — porn sites. In addition to the problem of unwanted exposure to explicit sexual material, the sheer intensity of many online activities seems to be causing problems in attention and social interaction for children who spend excessive time in front of the monitor.
Parents and caregivers can protect their children by instituting guidelines and safeguards such as:
- Strengthening family life by sharing meals, activities and interests so the child does not connect with something or someone else to feel valued and loved
- Discussing the pros and cons of the computer and checking what children are doing online to be sure it is age appropriate
- Assuring children they can come to you about anything that makes them uncomfortable or any mistakes they make and you will not get mad
- Locating the computer in the traffic ways with the monitor visible at all times
- Installing screening software and updating regularly
- Requiring permission for use based on “who, what, when and where,” just as you do for activities outside the home
- Setting time limits on the computer and other techno devices to protect family meals, conversation and shared projects and sleep time
These and other guidelines remind everyone in the family that the Internet must be used with caution. It is a valuable tool but, just like a car, it can be dangerous if used recklessly.
Sex Addiction Overview
