internet concerns
Symptoms of Internet Abuse
You know your child the best, and should be concerned if there is a noticeable change in behavior. Alfred O. Olsen, Chief of the Warwick Township (Lititz, Pennsylvania) Police Department, is a nationally recognized expert on Internet crime. Chief Olsen has collected some warning signs you should watch for, including:
- Loss of interest in social activities (withdrawal from friends, family)
- Uses of new (unusual) vocabulary, heavy with computer terms, satanic phrases, or sexual references—or sudden interest in related posters, music, etc.
- Look for related doodling or writing. Use of words such as: hacking, phreaking (or any words with "ph" replacing "f")
- Lack of interest in self and appearance or indications of lack of sleep
- Computer or modem running late at night (even when unattended), especially if the screen shows a series of four-digit numbers (the computer is trying to identify calling card PIN numbers), or a series of 16-digit numbers (the computer is trying to validate credit card numbers)
Background Information
A New Type of Internet Predator
Parents beware of yet another threat girls face—Web sites encouraging binging and purging.
The Internet's Dark Side
Understanding the dangers your kids face is critical to protecting them.
Questions and Answers
Does Focus have any information about Web filtering programs?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
How Tempting It Is
Giving your kids unrestricted access to the Internet is worse than you may know.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Do What I Do
Children learn by watching us live our lives. It is all the more reason to live honorably.
Related Topics
Relationships: Blended Families, Parents and Adult Children
Transitions: Preparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest
