Children and the Cyberworld

Nov 19, 2021

By Julie Lim
Children are probably the most vulnerable group of users in the cyberworld. Whilst the Internet is a source of information for children to learn and communicate, they are also exposed to various risks that could impact their psychological development.

In a recent episode of the Catholics @Home podcast, Dr Fam Jia Yuin, a lecturer with the Department of Psychology at HELP University, and Shamir Rajadurai, a crime prevention specialist from Prevent Crime Now, spoke about the risks affecting children in the cyberworld.

“There are always risks and threats in every situation. But with the Internet, we’re exposed to different types of danger,” says Shamir.

“According to research, 70 per cent of children globally between the ages of 17 and 18 have accidentally encountered pornography on the internet. What’s even more alarming is that 20 per cent of all internet pornography involves children. That’s how easily pornography is available on the internet.”

Citing paedophiles as a risk for children, Shamir explains, “Paedophiles are adults who prey on underage children for their sexual pleasure. Their modus operandi is to befriend and slowly build trust with the child until they’re able to manipulate the child into committing sexual acts. The paedophile may even threaten to blackmail the child by posting the child’s nude photos on social media.”

Apart from common risks such as child grooming and pornography, Dr Fam said that children are also exposed to psychological risk. Children could also develop low self-esteem and negative body image issues by comparing themselves to celebrities and influencers who exude ‘perfect’ looks.

“When children use the Internet for a reasonable amount of time, it becomes a positive experience in learning. They will have entertainment as well. But when they’re seated in front of the device for long hours, then it could lead to addiction,” he says.

“According to the American Academy of Paediatrics, parents should limit the screen time for their children to two hours per day.

“While parents may be able to limit the amount of time their children spend on the Internet, their children are still thinking about it even when they’re not using it. Therefore, imposing a time limit to Internet usage will not solve its psychological impact.”

“Not many parents are aware of the side effects or the content that their children are viewing over the Internet and social media. It is important for parents to monitor and filter what their children are viewing,” said Dr Fam.

To view this podcast, go to: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3CVMVfvDP