It’s pretty clear that you are a person that cares about this issue and how it impacts kids, teens, and families. We are assuming that’s why you are here. So you’re checking out some good information, finding out a lot more about the issues at hand, and getting some good tips and pointers on what to do next. But here is the

A Few Warning Signs and Indicators

  • Your child is spending large amounts of time online, especially at night. This is kind of a basic one but it is a clear warning sign. If they are spending a ton of time in chat rooms or instant messaging or surfing the web, this may not be a good thing.

  • Your child turns the computer monitor off or quickly changes the screen on the monitor when you come into the room. If they try to hide what is on the screen then surely it is something that they don’t want you to see. Hmmm. Could it be porn? Good chance it might be.

  • Your teen locks the door when working on the computer. Okay, let’s consider why the door might be locked. It’s probably not so you won’t catch them diligently studying for the Algebra quiz.

  • You catch your child lying about computer use. Honest dialogue happens when there is nothing to hide. Lies are told to you when your child feels like you may not approve of their actions. If your child is being dishonest about computer use you need to address this.

  • If your child becomes isolated or depressed and withdraws from normal family functions. If a child abandons typical things that would bring them joy and withdraws into the cyber world, this must be addressed.

  • You find pornography on your child’s computer. This is sort of a no-brainer but many parents will try and dismiss this. If you find pornography or inappropriate material on the computer it’s time to talk.

  • When you check sites your child has visited, they are all erased. Covering your tracks is a clear indicator that the actions online were not appropriate. The erasing of history is a serious indicator. Make sure that history is checked often and that there are no weird patterns.

  • Listen to how your child or teen talks about members of the opposite sex. Do they have a healthy point of view? Are they expressing respectful comments or do they talk about guys or girls in a purely physical and sexual way. Porn removes respect and distorts a healthy perspective on relationships.