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29 March 2024

Facebook faces flak from parents of young kids

Published
By Bindu Suresh Rai

A vast majority of parents believe that children should not be exposed to Facebook before 16 years, according to recent Emirates 24|7 poll.
 
The social media site, which has come under a lot of negative press over privacy issues, has incensed many parents into banning their children from accessing it or uploading personal information and images on it.
 
According to the poll, which comprised nearly 800 people, a vast 77 per cent stated that unless their child was over 16 years of age, sites such as Facebook was a big no.
 
“It’s not just Facebook itself, but any site that allows a child to interact with other individuals without supervision is a cause of concern,” said Emily Whitaker, a mother of two. “We live in a world where predators are running rampant and you want to protect your children as long as you can.”
 
Aditi Kalmaakar, a mother of one, agrees, adding: “My 12-year-old doesn’t yet grasp the concept of privacy and I wouldn’t want him to go online to put up images or personal information, including our address or phone numbers, for all to see. It requires a certain mental maturity that kids have to grow into.”
 
According to the poll, 15 per cent or 120 people, believed that even though Facebook has a minimum age policy of 13 years and above, this is being flouted by children who are faking their age and creating accounts.
 
“I discovered my 11-year-old on Facebook a few months ago, posing as a 14-year-old,” said Alex M. “I caught her when she added a friend’s older child as a friend and I saw her name and picture on their list. I was angry, to say the least.”
 
Experts say that children will flout rules, and that parental supervision may be the best step forward in such cases.
 
When quizzed, another eight per cent agreed in the poll, saying that they would allow their child under 13 years on Facebook, only if they were around to supervise.
 
“Let’s face it, children will be children and as a parent we have to take precautions to ensure they are safe,” said Jahanvi Sachchan. “I have created a Facebook account for my 12-year-old, but I only allow things to be posted up or new friends to be added after my approval.”
 
Experts suggest the best way forward in such instances is to keep the computer in a public place, such as the living room, so parental supervision is easier.
 
“Also, keep educating your child about online predators,” added Sachchan. “Teaching kids to get smart is the only way to fight back and websites like chatdanger.com tell you how you too can help your child. Being informed is half the battle won.”