The Internet has become increasingly a major part of our lives.It can be used at home, work, schools, and libraries and with wire less technology, surfing the web is everywhere. It estimated that 90% of the American teenagers use the Internet. These youngsters usually visit some websites to get homework done, post their profiles on my space, attend chat rooms, and send e-mails. This increase in using the Internet has made psychologists and parents concerned about its effect on teenagers. Research have found that it affects both their social skills and behaviors.[1]
It was found that males use the Internet more than females do. Most of the boys spent their time playing violent video games with other boys at home or online,or sometime alone. While the girls are more likely to spend their time on social interaction, even online by chatting and gossiping with their friends or doing online shopping.[2] Because of this, teenagers may become addicted to the Internet, and this will lead to depression and isolation from society.
If children spend most of their time online, it could make them more exposed to pornography. Some of public chat rooms were designed for sex talk, and by entering these rooms with different identities, children may come out of their shells and be open to topics about sex and ask questions that they may never ask their parents, sometimes exchanging links of porn movies and pictures. Pornography and sexual media can influence sexual violence, sexual attitudes, moral values, and sexual activity, among children and youth.[3]
The Internet if not used correctly, is a waste of time especially for youngsters. Instead of doing there homework and research it will effect their social skills and behaviors. Parents should always supervise children and teenagers in this. Reducing the number of hours of Internet usage to two per day, and placing the computer in a non-private room of the house, may decrease the negative impact on youth.
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