Australia’s Social Media Ban for Kids Under 16: A Step Forward or a Step Too Far?
Australia’s decision to ban children under 16 from accessing social media has ignited a global debate about the balance between protection and personal freedom. This law, one of the strictest of its kind, aims to address growing concerns about the harmful effects of social media on young people. But is it the right move? Will […]
Cyberbullying: The Power of Bystanders and Upstanders in Shaping Outcomes
Cyberbullying is a unique form of harassment. It isn’t tied to a single place or moment. Instead, it follows children wherever they go—even in their own homes. This constant threat leaves many feeling anxious or unsafe at all hours. How Cyberbullying Affects Mental Health As a psychiatrist, I see the real impact on young patients. […]
A Big Step Toward Safer Social Media Use in Schools
We all know how deeply social media is woven into our daily lives, especially for students. It’s a place where friendships are maintained, ideas are exchanged, and, yes, learning can even happen. But it’s also a space where students are exposed to cyberbullying, harmful content, and endless distractions. With 53% of teens spending over five […]
Social Media Safety Trends and Solutions
As Cybersecurity Awareness Month unfolds, there’s a focus on social media safety—a critical issue given the growing number of users and the evolving nature of online threats. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook remain popular, particularly among younger audiences, making it essential to address the associated risks. This article delves into the latest trends, highlights […]
Bullying: A Global Issue with Long-Lasting Effects
As we observe National Bullying Prevention Month, it’s essential to recognize that bullying is a widespread issue affecting children worldwide. Whether it’s physical, verbal, or social bullying, the negative consequences extend far beyond the schoolyard. Children who experience bullying often face challenges that can shape their development and future opportunities. Bullying in the U.S.: Key […]
Digital Self-Presentation and Adolescent Mental Health: New Insights from 2024 Research
A recent 2024 study published in BMC Public Health sheds light on how digital self-presentation on social media significantly impacts the mental health of adolescents. In a world where social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat dominate, teenagers are increasingly engaged in strategic self-presentation—carefully crafting their online personas to appear more attractive, successful, or […]
Understanding Sextortion: Definition, Statistics, Legislation, and AI’s Role in Prevention
Sextortion, a form of online blackmail, occurs when an individual is coerced into providing explicit content or performing sexual acts under the threat of exposure or harm. This cybercrime is on the rise globally and is especially prevalent among teenagers and young adults. The emotional, psychological, and financial toll it takes on victims is devastating, […]
Cyberbullying in Focus: Recent Studies, Legislation, and Empirical Insights
Introduction to Cyberbullying Cyberbullying is defined as the use of digital platforms to harass, threaten, or humiliate individuals. It has become a pervasive issue in modern society, particularly among adolescents who are frequent users of social media and online communication tools. The anonymity provided by the internet often emboldens bullies, making it easier for them […]
Cell Phones in Schools: Balancing Benefits and Risks
The Debate on Cell Phones in Schools: Finding Balance The debate over cell phones in schools is a hot topic, and it’s easy to see why parents hold such strong opinions. On one hand, these devices offer a convenient way to communicate and can be powerful tools for learning. On the other, they have the […]
Decoding “Gyatt”: The New Slang Captivating Gen Z
The internet is a constantly evolving space for language, particularly among younger generations. Keeping up with the latest slang can often feel like decoding a hidden language for adults. One such term currently gaining popularity among Gen Z is “gyatt.” But what exactly does it mean, and why has it captured the attention of today’s […]