What Are Chat Rooms?

Chatrooms are popular hangouts on the Internet. Many teenagers, parents and business people use them as a method for communication to keep in contact with family, friends and co-workers. While chatrooms can be very useful and beneficial, they also can be hangouts for Internet predators as well. Read below to find out more about these virtual communication platforms and the proper ways to use them.

Function

Chatrooms are used for two or more Internet users to speak back and forth with each other via text or the use of a microphone. Chatrooms can be found on websites or on messengers, such as Yahoo!, AOL or MSN. Some chatrooms now have a feature where people can see each other via a web cam as well. Users can also communicate with each other using graphics to display emotions, often called emoticons.

Types

There are a variety of types of chatrooms that are available online. See the Resources section for a link. Some are used for just business only, while others are for entertainment and pleasure purposes. Chatrooms have been designed to attract a wide range of people. Some are just for teenagers only, while others are open to parents to discuss parenting issues or questions about their children. Sometimes television shows provide chatrooms where fans can ask their favorite movie stars questions or give comments.

Benefits

There are several benefits to having access to chatrooms. Chatrooms are a great place to host a business meeting for those who work from remote locations in their home. Some chatrooms are popular for hosting online parties to sell products, such as jewelry, cosmetics and more. Chatrooms are great for promoting business or for just sharing friendly conversation.

Considerations

When talking in chatrooms, it is respectful to have consideration for other people. Take turns when speaking to others, and if you would just like to to speak with just one person, click on his username to speak privately with him. That way you are not taking up the entire room for others who wish to speak. Also, try to abstain from using foul language and keep your topics clean and fun. You are never sure if there are younger people logged in, or if there are moderators viewing the room. If a moderator has believed that you have broken chatroom rules, or are are using rude and foul language, she can kick you out of a room.

Warning

Never give out any personal information in chatrooms. Refrain from using your real name, telling your location, or giving out your contact information, such as address or telephone number. Be careful what you say, as there could be online predators within the chatrooms. An individual can appear to be someone who is trying to be your friend, but he really is not. If your children are using chatrooms to communicate with their friends, monitor their use closely, and warn them of Internet predators or stalkers. It is wise to not let young children use chatrooms--they are easy targets for internet predators. By asking simple questions, such as where they hang out after school or if they play a sport, they can become victims.

Resources

• Free chatrooms
• Free chat community