How to prevent children from abusing the Internet

The use of mobile devices, tablets and other technological elements, what we commonly know as ICT (Information and Communication Technologies) have provided our children, young people and adolescents with a whole set of experiences, knowledge and endless possibilities. offers technology, the fruit of the development and capabilities of the human being.

Minors are usually referred to as "digital natives" because they are accustomed to using technology from an early age and have learned to normalize its use.

However, the knowledge that children and adolescents handle is associated with the daily and habitual management of ICT, what we call "usability", generates dangers such as lack of security, privacy, ignorance of the applicable legislation or make ause not responsible, that is, abuse the Internet.

Loss of privacy of children on the Internet

For this reason, in recent years the learning and self-learning behavior of minors on the internet and new technologies has increased, but it has also grown in parallel and alarmingly. loss of privacy, privacy and abusive use of the tools that technology provides.

So, there is no doubt that, along with its numerous benefits, technology, at times, also complicates our lives and brings with it risks that we must keep in mind.

In this sense, in a large number of cases we are facing situations of overstimulation of the child to the Internet, an abusive or improper use in the use of video games, consoles, tablets, mobile phones, computers, being able to create in the young person a strong dependence on the time and number of hours that he / she uses in said activities.

The abusive use of the Internet

We understand a abusive or inappropriate use of the internet when the child manifests negative consequences for himself and his environment, especially when it generates complications in his studies and in social relationships; Other elements to take into account are the lack of respect for established schedules, loss of interest in activities previously practiced, sleep disorders or distancing from family and friends.

It is understandable that parents may be concerned about their children's use of ICT, but generally we do not find an addictive disorder, but an abusive and inappropriate use of the child, which has been manifesting for a significant period of time and becoming a habit; and, therefore, you have to unlearn it.

Therefore, it is necessary and advisable for parents to be alert to these warning signs, discussed above, which may be indicating that our child is beginning to abuse the Internet and new technologies, with the dangers that this entails if out of control ; mainly, when the child shows a progressive distancing with his friends and a delay in the development of his social skills.

Therefore, to avoid these situations and their consequences, it is recommended that parents and mothers be attentive and control what games your children use, how they play with them and during what frequency, as well as playing with them (since it improves family communication) and controlling the content and use of Internet quality.

It is not about prohibiting the use of ICT, but learn to use them responsibly and rationally, substituting inappropriate habits for more positive ones, thus being able to make the most of the numerous benefits and advantages that technology provides.

In this sense, it is necessary for parents to increase our knowledge on this subject, delving into the world of ICT, analyzing their risks and managing a set and range of preventive strategies; including protection factors, family dynamics and communication improvement.

Fundamentally, we must keep in mind the importance of establish norms and limits in the use of the internet, encourage the practice of other activities and observe that our children also fulfill their obligations.

Obviously, so that these measures and any other protection factor that we carry out have the desired efficacy and, therefore, the effect that we seek, which is none other than to reduce and control the abusive use that our children make of internet and networks. social, it is advisable that we preach by example, evidently practicing healthy habits in the use of ICT; In this way, we ensure that our children internalize these attitudes, behaviors and behaviors, using the Internet in a normal and adequate manner.

Ricardo Lombardero. Lawyer, Mediator and Coach. Cofounder of Lomber Soluciones Cyberbullying