Cyber Communication & Its Effects on Youth

Cyber communication affects teen behavior.

Cyber communication is society's newest way to interact. Online social networking websites, text messages and emails provide users with an effective, quick way to communicate with people all over the world. Teens in particular spend hours online everyday, on computers or personal electronic devices. The effects of cyber communication have both positive and negative consequences for youth.

Friendships

Family-rescource.com states that 48 percent of teens believe the Internet improves their friendships. With social networking sites becoming increasingly popular, youth are able to stay connected to real and online friends. Some teens believe cyber connections help them feel confident to be their true selves. Instant messaging programs, used by an estimated 13 million teens, allow conversations with friends to occur in real time. Online communication tools open the door for friendships with other teens near and far.

Writing

While teens are frequently online, using cyber forms of communication doesn't require formal writing skills. Quite the opposite actually occurs; youths often use shorthand, abbreviations or slang when writing online. The National Commission on Writing states that 85 percent of teens use social networking communication, but 60 percent of them don't see this form of communication as "writing." Teens should be aware of the difference between formal and informal writing, and understand when the latter is not appropriate (in school).

Cyberbullying

Cyberbullying is a negative effect of online communication between youth. Victims of cyberbullying often experience rumors and lies spread on online social networks. Bullies may post inappropriate or embarrassing pictures of their victims. Another aspect of cyberbullying involves using mean text messages as harassment. The National Crime Prevention Council states that cyberbullying is a problem for almost half of American teens. In some extreme cases, teens have taken their own lives as a result of cyberbullying.

Sexual Solicitation

Sexual solicitation is a growing concern for youth who use forms of cyber communication. It may occur in chat rooms or on social networking sites. Sexual solicitation occurs when an adult or peer tries to engage in an online sexual relationship. A teen may be asked to disclose personal information, view pornography or discuss something sexual online. About 70 percent of teens who are sexually solicited online are girls. Teens should be cautious in posting suggestive photos online and talking to strangers in chat rooms.

References

• University of Florida: Teen Safety in Cyberspace
• National Crime Prevention Council: Cyberbullying
• Family Resource: Internet & American Life: Teens & Their Friends
• The National Commission on Writing: Writing, Technology and Teens