Parents struggle to control teens' online behavior

The Netflix series "Adolescence" highlights a troubling reality for parents: they often lack control over their children's online lives. The show tells the story of Jamie, a 13-year-old boy arrested for the murder of his classmate. This case raises important questions about family dynamics, social media influences, and youth behavior. Despite parents’ best efforts, many aspects of teens' lives, especially online, are shaped by external forces. A parent in the show, Jamie’s father, reflects on their parenting choices as they struggle to understand how their son ended up in jail. This reflects a broader sentiment among parents who often blame themselves when their children get into trouble. Experts like criminal defense lawyer Rebecca Smart note that, while parents feel the weight of responsibility, youth behavior is influenced by various risks beyond parental control. She argues it is rare for parents to prevent serious issues solely through stricter rules or better internet safeguards. Social media presence is growing among children. Data shows even young children are often online unsupervised. Author Tasha Bailey emphasizes that, while the internet can provide support for young people, it also exposes them to harmful content. This duality can make parenting challenging. Writer Jack Thorne points out that encountering darker online spaces can lead to dangerous behavior for some teens. Surveys reveal many adolescents have stumbled upon misogynistic and harmful material on social media. Thus, it is crucial for parents to engage with their children's online experiences. Bailey suggests parents integrate social media into family life in a healthy way, encouraging open conversations about the digital world. This can help teens feel safe discussing their online experiences with their parents without fear of judgment. Good communication is key. Trust is built when parents are non-judgmental and supportive. Parents can also utilize available parental controls on social media platforms to monitor and limit their children's online activity while fostering a dialogue first. Under new laws in the UK, tech companies must take steps to protect children online. While this provides some reassurance, experts agree that more action is required to combat the subtle issues like misogyny faced in today’s digital landscape. As families navigate these challenges, both at home and online, it is clear that parenting in the digital age requires effort and adaptability. The show "Adolescence" serves as a timely reminder of these ongoing struggles.