Pros & Cons of Internet Chatting
Since the beginning of online messaging in 1996, the number of people who chat online has exploded. There are hundreds of online chat programs available for anyone in just about any situation--from teen chat groups to cancer support groups to parent support groups. But, is it taking over too much of our live,s and is it dangerous? The results of an increase in online chatting include more efficient communication but a decrease in interpersonal communication skills.
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Face-to-Face
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Online chatting enables users to provide information or pose a question with instant responses. This increases the efficiency of communications. Both parties can obtain the information and move on.
Online chatting is becoming a substitute for face-to-face communication. Users no longer have to visit or call someone to communicate, they simply hop online. To this end, individuals are losing their interpersonal skills. It is especially harmful to teens because they are still developing their skills. People who spend a lot of time chatting online also spend less time outdoors or in social settings. Their etiquette and general manners are compromised, as well.
Dating
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Online chatting enables individuals looking for a date the ability to get to know other participants before an actual date is set up. This helps to eliminate those you are not interested in before meeting and helps prevent embarrassment for both parties. On the other hand, online chatting also opens the door to dishonest participants. You might think you are meeting someone with one personality, and the reality is completely different. Don't believe everything you are told in a chat room.
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Teens
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Teens are using online chat rooms at a staggering rate: 75 percent to 90 percent of American teens use online chat or instant message programs. This can be helpful for teens reaching out to other teens that are experiencing similar situations as theirs. It is a helpful resource for support. It is also a great way for teens to stay in touch, without leaving home--and Mom's watchful eye. However, parents must monitor what teens are saying and to whom they are saying it. Teens are easily drawn into dangerous situations by predators online. Stay abreast of your child's friends and their screen names. If you see one that is new, find out who this new friend is and monitor their conversation. Many teens' online interactions are harmless, but many fall victim to online predators.
Research and Study
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Using online resources and chat rooms is an effective way to conduct research or a study for educational purposes; however, ensure you are using reliable sources. Online chat room research enables children to access resources they would otherwise need to make an appointment and find time to check out. Finding a chat room with appropriate participants will enable them to conduct research or studies with the experts. Unfortunately, those sources might not be truthful, so you must be vigilant in researching a source to confirm its authenticity.
Regulation
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There is currently little regulation on the Internet and online chat rooms. Users may enter a chat room that is only regulated by its rules because there is virtually no federal regulation on the Internet. Although this is wonderful for free speech, it is harmful to users who do not want to be bombarded with vulgarity or inappropriate content. Until more rules and regulations are established, users must be aware of the chat rooms they enter and participate in.
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