CYBER ZEN

Author: Nisha Kanade

  • Digital Parenting – A Cause of Stress Among Office Going Parents

    Digital Parenting – A Cause of Stress Among Office Going Parents

    What is digital parenting

    Digital parenting is a new aspect of parenting that focuses on the digital upbringing of children. Its need has emerged due to the high exposure of children to digital media and the Internet. It involves nurturing the kids to develop healthy habits around technology and the Internet, which is a challenging task. The biggest responsibility of a digital parent is to make their child Internet mature. It includes guiding the kids to capitalize on online opportunities, protecting them from online dangers and threats, and making them responsible digital citizens.

    As with children, parents too are exposed to digital media, that’s why they understand how vulnerable the children can be on the Internet. A parent always keeps worrying about what kind of content their child must be watching on the Internet. While using social media, there is a risk of children talking to strangers who can be predators.

    Online Threats and Dangers

    There are online threats of cyberbullying, stalking, grooming, identity theft and more. Longer screen time can cause many physical problems with children. All these recurring thoughts keep making the parent anxious and stressed.

    Home makers or working from home parents can keep an eye on the digital activity of their child up to an extent. They can check in between and keep a track on them. What about office going parents?  Since they spend a good chunk of time away from their children this anxiety gets heightened. They always feel stressed in the anticipation of what their children might be doing in the digital world.

    Role of Parental Control Tools

    Some parents may exercise some control on their kid’s online activity through parental control software or apps. However it can only curb the child’s access through a particular device.  But there can be multiple devices available to them, such as their friends’ or grandparents’. Parental control will restrict few pornographic, violent, or gambling websites. However it is just a small part of a whole ocean of age inappropriate content.

    Solution

    In order to put all of these worries to rest, every parent must strive to become a digital leader in addition to being a digital parent. Only then they will be able to fulfill their digital parenting responsibility of making their child Internet mature. It is the need of the hour and an urgent demand of the 21st century.

    To know how a digital parent can become a digital leader, read this blog article. To learn more about what is internet maturity explore iMature.in

    If you are an office going parent then you’re welcome to share your digital parenting experiences in the comment section.

  • From Tools to Manipulation: Dark side of technological advancement

    From Tools to Manipulation: Dark side of technological advancement

    Manipulation, sloganizing, depositing, regimentation, and prescription cannot be components of revolutionary praxis, precisely because they are the components of the praxis of domination.

    Paulo Freire

    In today’s fast-paced digital era, companies are competing vigorously for one of the most valuable resources: your attention. The advent of technological advancements has not only changed the way we work and perceive the world but has also given rise to a new market of data – one that trades in the future of humanity.

    Every action we take in the online realm is being recorded and meticulously watched. As Twitter’s former executive, Jeff Seibert, points out, these companies have more information about us than ever before in human history. From our personality types to our romantic partners, they have detailed logs of our lives. But their intentions don’t stop at merely collecting data; they use it to build intricate models  that predict our every action, from the videos we watch to the photos we like. It’s a world where technology has transitioned from being tool-based to manipulation-based.

    The Main Goals of These Companies

    Let’s delve into the primary goals that drive these tech companies:

    1. Engagement Goal – Keeping You Hooked – They aim to keep you constantly engaged, ensuring you spend as much time on their platforms as possible. The longer they can hold your attention, the more valuable you become to them.

    2. Growth Goal – Ensuring You Keep Coming Back for More These companies want to create addictive user experiences, leading you to keep returning to their platforms day after day.

    3. Advertisement Goal – Targeting You with Personalized Ads by collecting vast amounts of data about you, they can tailor advertisements specifically to your interests and preferences, increasing the likelihood of you making a purchase.

    The World of Online Connection

    Technology is a gift for mankind but slowing it is obscuring our life 

    online connections have become primary in our lives because they tap into our psychological tendencies, such as the need for validation, the desire for social belonging, and the quest for self-expression

    In this technologically driven world. We’ve become accustomed to refreshing our pages and being rewarded with new content, an experience known as positive intermittent reinforcement. This psychological tactic keeps us coming back for more, seeking that satisfying feeling.

    Companies also leverage our inherent need for tagging and social validation to maintain our attention. The “typing” indicator on messaging platforms is strategically used to keep us engaged, waiting eagerly for the response.

    Unknowingly Used as Lab Rats

    Unbeknownst to many of us, we are unwittingly used as lab rats by these companies. They exploit vulnerabilities in human psychology, manipulating our behavior to keep us hooked on their platforms. As technology evolves, algorithms play a significant role in guiding our attention and actions. The unsettling truth is that our choices and decisions are influenced by these algorithms, designed to shape our online experiences.

    Back in 2014, Facebook conducted a pretty interesting (and controversial) Emotional Contagion Study. They wanted to see how our emotions can be influenced by what we see online, so they played around with our News Feeds. Some lucky users got to see positive stuff, while others saw more negative content. And guess what? It had an impact! Those who were surrounded by positive posts started sharing more positivity, while the ones exposed to negative updates ended up posting more negative stuff. Quite fascinating, right? But it also sparked a debate about whether such experiments should have been done without our knowing. After all, emotions are powerful, and we should have a say in what we’re exposed to online.

    Beyond Tools: The Age of Manipulation

    Picture credit – Pixabay

    Intriguingly, only two industries refer to their customers as “users” – the illegal drug industry and the software industry. This striking similarity highlights how technology has transitioned from being a mere tool to a potent means of manipulation. As our attention is meticulously guided by algorithms, we must recognize the implications and consequences.

    Instagram’s “Like” Button and Notifications (2021): Instagram, a widely-used social media platform, employs psychological tactics to ensure user engagement. A notable example is the infamous “Like” button, which triggers a release of dopamine in the brain when users receive likes on their posts. This pleasurable sensation reinforces the desire for more likes, resulting in addictive behavior and prolonged usage of the platform. Moreover, Instagram’s notifications are strategically crafted to entice users to check the app frequently, fostering a sense of constant connection and dependency. These deliberate tactics keep users hooked, contributing to the platform’s popularity and the amount of time spent on it.

    • Netflix’s Content Recommendation (Ongoing): Netflix’s recommendation system is a prime example of how tech companies manipulate user behavior to increase engagement. By analyzing user viewing history and preferences, Netflix provides personalized content suggestions, creating a seamless and binge-worthy viewing experience. This personalization keeps users immersed in the platform for longer periods, ultimately leading to increased subscription retention and revenue for Netflix.

    The Severe Consequences

    The consequences of these manipulations are severe, especially for the younger generation. In a groundbreaking study spanning the past decade, researchers have delved into the intriguing world of “addictive technological behaviors” and their deep connections with comorbid psychiatric disorders. Such as  attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder( ADHD), obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD), Anxiety, Depression etc. 

    The sense of self-worth and identity among kids is being affected as they chase a fake sense of popularity online, often leading to serious consequences. Disturbingly, suicide rates among girls aged 15-19 increased after 2010-11, indicating the gravity of the situation. An entire generation is being conditioned to use digital pacifiers to escape real-life situations, impacting their mental and emotional well-being.

    Algorithms: Opinions Embedded in Codes

    The exponential technological advancements are facilitated by algorithms, which Cathy O’Neil, Author of Weapons of Math Destruction, aptly describes as opinions embedded in codes. These algorithms influence our passive perceptions, shaping the information we receive and consume.

    These algorithms are not like the traditional weapons we see in action movies, but they can be just as destructive. They lurk behind computer screens and are used in various areas of our lives, like education, job applications, and even our interactions with the criminal justice system.

    One of the most troubling aspects of the Weapons of Math Destruction book is how they perpetuate biases. You might be wondering, “What are biases?” Well, biases are unfair beliefs or judgments that favor one group of people over others. Unfortunately, some algorithms unintentionally carry these biases, leading to unfair and unequal treatment for certain groups.

    In education, for example, some algorithms determine whether a student gets accepted into a school or not. But here’s the catch: these algorithms might unfairly favor certain students based on their background, race, or even zip code. This means that deserving students might be left behind while others with advantages get ahead.

    The job application process is no exception. Some companies use algorithms to screen candidates for job positions. While this might sound efficient, these algorithms could end up unfairly favoring certain applicants and excluding others due to factors like their name or the school they attended. This can lead to a lack of diversity in the workplace and hinder people’s chances of getting the job they deserve.

    Reclaiming Control and Realizing Our Worth

    As we navigate this era of technological manipulation, it’s essential to be conscious of the impact technology has on our lives. Let’s strive to reclaim control of our attention and actions. We are more than mere data points, and our worth cannot be defined by algorithms. It’s time to strike a balance between the benefits of technology and the preservation of our well-being, ensuring a healthier and more mindful relationship with the digital world.

    Reclaiming control and realizing our worth in the digital era is crucial for maintaining a healthy relationship with technology and preserving our well-being. Here are some practical ways to achieve this:

    1.      Digital Detox  Take regular breaks from digital devices and social media. Designate specific times during the day to disconnect and engage in activities that promote physical and mental well-being, such as exercise, reading, or spending time with loved ones.

    2.      Set Digital Boundaries Digital boundaries are a set of rules that you create that help you to limit your time on digital devices. Establish clear boundaries for technology usage, both in terms of time and content. Avoid bringing digital devices to the bedroom and allocate specific periods for work, socializing, and leisure activities online.

    3.      Limit Social Media Use  Social media can be addictive and lead to feelings of inadequacy. Limit the time spent on social media platforms, and consider unfollowing accounts that make you feel negatively about yourself.

    4.      Unplug Regularly  Make it a habit to unplug from technology during meals, gatherings, or important events. Be present in the moment and focus on genuine human interactions without the distraction of screens.

    5.      Prioritize Offline Activities  Engage in hobbies and activities that don’t involve screens. Pursue interests like painting, playing a musical instrument, or engaging in sports to foster a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment.

    6.      Practice Mindfulness  Cultivate mindfulness by staying aware of your digital habits. When using technology, be conscious of the content you consume and how it makes you feel. Mindfulness helps you make conscious choices about your digital engagement.

    7.      Connect Face-to-Face  Prioritize face-to-face interactions whenever possible. Meet friends, family, or colleagues in person to foster deeper connections and reduce the reliance on digital communication.

    8.      Control Notifications  Notifications are meant to draw your attention. They not only make us open the app but also increase impulsive behavior. It is better to customize your device’s notification settings to minimize distractions. Turn off non-essential notifications to reduce the constant urge to check your phone or computer. 

    9.      Educate Yourself  Stay informed about the impact of technology on mental health and well-being. Read books and articles that discuss the effects of excessive screen time and learn about strategies to mitigate negative consequences.

    10.   Digital Cleanse  Periodically review and declutter your digital life. Delete unused apps, unsubscribe from email lists, and organize digital files to create a less cluttered and more focused digital environment. 

    11.   Develop Offline Hobbies  Cultivate interests that encourage you to spend time away from screens. Gardening, hiking, cooking, or volunteering are examples of fulfilling offline activities.

    12.   Practice Self-Compassion  Be kind to yourself and avoid comparing your life to others’ highlight reels on social media. Remember that everyone’s journey is unique, and you are more than your online presence.

    By implementing these strategies, you can regain control over your digital life, reduce the negative impact of technology, and recognize your worth beyond the virtual realm. Embrace a balanced approach to technology use, one that enhances your life while preserving your mental and emotional well-being.

    So, the next time you find yourself mindlessly scrolling through your screen, remember that you hold the power to break free from the cycle. Reconnect with the real world, cherish genuine human interactions, and embrace the beauty of living beyond the boundaries of virtual manipulation.

  • Digital Betrayal: How Snapchat and Instagram Sexting Plunge Minors into Darkness

    Digital Betrayal: How Snapchat and Instagram Sexting Plunge Minors into Darkness

    Sending a sexually explicit message or photo may seem like a harmless fun activity, but for minors, it can lead to serious legal and emotional consequences. According to a survey conducted by the Cyberbullying Research Centre, 15% of teens have sent a sexually explicit message, and 22% have received one.

    The rise of social media platforms has given young people a new way to explore and express their sexuality through sexting. However, this dangerous practice can have serious legal, emotional, and social consequences, especially for minors. In this article, we will explore the risks of sexting on Instagram and Snapchat and suggest ways to protect our young generation from the fallout.

    The Dangers of Sexting on Instagram and Snapchat

    The virtual world has expanded beyond the boundaries of the physical world, and young people have pushed the limits by sharing personal information in the form of texts, photos, and videos with both friends and strangers on social media platforms like Instagram and Snapchat. While the 21st-century internet has provided us with liberty, it also comes with the responsibility of handling it maturely. Unfortunately, not everyone is capable of doing so, and minors, in particular, can easily fall prey to the dangers of sexting.

    Legal Repercussions

    Minors who engage in sexting are often unaware that sharing explicit content in the form of texts, photos, and videos is illegal for underage individuals. According to a study by the Crimes Against Children Research Centre at the University of New Hampshire, approximately 15% of teenagers have sent sexually explicit messages or images of themselves to others, and one-third of those who have sent such messages have sent them to people they have never met.

    Sexting is not defined or addressed by any law in India. But it may attract the following provisions Section 67B deals with severe penalties for sharing child pornography electronically. In India, Under Section 14 of the POCSO Act, 2012 whoever uses a child or children for pornographic purposes shall be punished with imprisonment of either description which may extend to five years and shall be liable to fine.

    Furthermore, adults who engage in sexting with minors can face criminal charges for child sexual exploitation, possession of child pornography, and other related offences.

    Emotional Repercussions

    The emotional impact of sexting can be particularly devastating for minors. If explicit photos or messages are leaked, the individual can be subjected to cyberbullying or harassment, leading to long-lasting emotional scars. In some cases, these emotional consequences can lead to clinical problems like depression, suicidal thoughts, and generalized anxiety disorder. Even if the images or messages are shared without consent, this can lead to trust issues and damage personal and platonic relationships. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, sexting among adolescents is associated with a greater likelihood of engaging in risky sexual behaviors and experiencing sexual coercion.

    Cyberbullying and Harassment

    Sexting can make minors vulnerable to cyberbullying and harassment, especially if the content is shared without their consent. In such cases, the emotional impact can be severe, and the victim may feel ashamed, embarrassed, and humiliated. This can lead to further bullying and harassment, making it difficult for the victim to escape the situation. A study by the Cyberbullying Research Centre found that 12% of teens have reported being threatened or harassed online due to sexting, and 5% have reported being pressured to send sexual content.

    Increased Risk of Sexual Exploitation

    Once a message or image is sent, it can be forwarded to unintended recipients, which can have severe consequences. For instance, images or videos can be shared online without the sender’s consent, which can lead to humiliation and negative social consequences. Hence, minors who engage in sexting are at an increased risk of sexual exploitation, both online and in the real world. Paedophiles can easily exploit these vulnerable individuals, and the consequences can be severe. A study by the National Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Children found that 40% of young people who had sent explicit images reported that those images had been shared without their consent.

    Damage to Online Reputation

    In the digital age, online reputation is as important as the offline reputation of an individual. Whether it is higher education or a professional career, everyone does background verification before on boarding. In the case of sexting, it can be very difficult to apply for higher education or even get employed in a reputable organisation. According to a study by the Cyberbullying Research Centre, 24% of teens who have sent or received explicit content reported negative consequences in their academic or professional lives.

    Possible Causes Why Minors Indulge in Sexting

    Understanding the underlying causes of minors engaging in sexting can help address the issue effectively. While the algorithm of Instagram and Snapchat may contribute to the exposure of explicit content, there are other factors at play as well:

    ·   Not So Diversified Social Group

    Having a limited social group can also be a reason for minors indulging in sexting. When individuals are surrounded by the same type of content, it can create a monotonous timeline that lacks diversity. This lack of exposure to different perspectives and interests may contribute to curiosity and experimentation with sexting.

    ·   Peer Pressure

    Adolescents may feel pressured by their peers to engage in sexting behavior as a way to fit in or gain popularity. The fear of being left out or being judged by peers can push young individuals to participate in activities they may not fully understand the consequences of.

    ·   Lack of Awareness

    Some adolescents may not fully understand the potential risks and consequences of sexting, such as the possibility of the images being shared without their consent or the potential legal consequences. Lack of comprehensive sex education or guidance from adults can leave minors unaware of the potential dangers involved.

    ·   Sexual Curiosity

    Adolescents are naturally curious about sex and sexuality, and sexting may be seen as a way to explore their sexual interests. The ease of access to explicit content online and the influence of media can contribute to heightened curiosity and experimentation.

    ·   Attention-Seeking Behaviour

    Some adolescents may engage in sexting as a way to seek attention or validation from others. In a hyper connected world where social validation plays a significant role, young individuals may turn to sexting as a means of gaining attention or feeling desired.

    ·   Coercion

    Unfortunately, some adolescents may be coerced or pressured into sexting by their partners or others. Manipulative individuals may exploit vulnerabilities and use emotional tactics to convince minors to engage in sexting, creating an unhealthy power dynamic.

    How to Help yourself?

    Cyber Civil Rights Initiative (CCRI): CCRI is a nonprofit organisation that offers resources and support for individuals who have experienced non-consensual image sharing, also known as “revenge porn.” They provide guidance on how to take legal action, remove explicit content from the internet, and cope with the emotional aftermath.

    Childline India Foundation: Childline India Foundation is a helpline dedicated to protecting children’s rights and well-being. Minors in India facing issues related to sexting can reach out to Childline for assistance.

    Helpline: 1098

    How to Save Our Young Generation?

    Preventing underage sexting requires a multi-faceted approach that involves parents, educators, and policymakers. Let’s explore some ways to protect our young generation from the risks of sexting:

    Discuss the Permanence of Digital Content: Help your child understand that anything shared online, including sexts or explicit content, can be permanent and may have long-term consequences. Remind them that even if they delete something, it can still be retrieved or shared by others.

    Role of Parental Control Tools: Parents can take an active role in protecting their children by monitoring their online activity, setting boundaries, discussing the potential risks and consequences of sexting, and utilizing parental control tools. Tools such as 

    1. FamiSafe parental control software
    2. Windows Family Safety
    3. Kaspersky Total Security
    4. kidlogger Parental Control
    5. OpenDNS FamilyShield
    6. Mobicip
    7. Surfie
    8. Net Nanny Parental Control
    9. Norton Online Family
    10. Kids Watch Pro

    can help parents limit their child’s access to certain content and applications, track their online activity, and set time limits for device usage. By combining these strategies, parents can help reduce the risk of their children engaging in sexting behaviours.

    Role of Digital Parenting

    Digital parenting plays a crucial role in guiding children to have a healthy and responsible digital experience. Parents should impart digital Sanskar to their children, which includes teaching them to capitalise on online opportunities, while staying away from threats and dangers of the online world. 

    Teach Responsible Digital Citizenship: 

    Instil the values of responsible digital citizenship in your child. Teach them about empathy, respect, and the importance of considering the consequences of their actions online. Encourage them to be mindful of their digital footprint and how it can impact their future.

    Highlight the Importance of Consent: Teach your child about the significance of consent in any form of communication, online or offline. Emphasise that sharing explicit content without someone’s consent is not only disrespectful but also illegal.

    Set Clear Boundaries: Establish clear rules and boundaries regarding internet usage and device access. Discuss what kind of content is appropriate to share and what is not, and the consequences of breaking these rules.

    Educate on Privacy and Online Safety: Teach your child about the importance of privacy and the potential risks of sharing personal information online. Help them understand the significance of maintaining control over their own digital identity and the potential consequences of sharing explicit content.

     Open and Honest Communication

    Establish an environment of trust and open communication with your child. Talk to them about the potential dangers of sexting, including the legal and emotional consequences. Encourage them to approach you if they have any concerns or questions.

     Foster the growing importance of Internet Maturity: Help your child develop internet maturity by guiding them to make responsible choices online. Teach them critical thinking skills, how to verify information, and how to recognize and handle inappropriate or harmful content. Encourage them to think before they share anything online.

     Bottom Line

    In conclusion, while social media platforms like Snapchat and Instagram have revolutionised communication and connectivity, they have also introduced new risks, particularly in the realm of sexting. For minors, engaging in sexting can lead to serious legal, emotional, and social consequences. The consequences of such actions can have a lasting impact on their lives, affecting their mental health, personal relationships, and future prospects.

    To protect our young generation, it is essential to raise awareness about the dangers of sexting and provide comprehensive sex education. Parents, educators, and policymakers must work together to promote responsible digital citizenship and teach minors about the importance of privacy, online safety, and responsible internet usage.

    Empowering minors with the knowledge and understanding of the potential risks and consequences of sexting can help them make informed decisions and avoid falling into the darkness of digital betrayal.

    FAQs

    1. Is sexting always illegal?

    While sexting itself may not be explicitly illegal in all jurisdictions, sending explicit content involving minors can lead to severe legal consequences, especially for adults involved in such activities with minors.

    2. Can sexting lead to cyberbullying?

    Yes, if explicit content is shared without consent, it can lead to cyberbullying and harassment, causing emotional distress to the individuals involved.

    3. How can parents protect their children from sexting risks?

    Parents can protect their children by maintaining open communication, setting boundaries, and utilising parental control tools to monitor their online activity.

    4. Are there any long-term emotional consequences of sexting?

    Yes, sexting can lead to long-lasting emotional scars, including depression, anxiety, and trust issues, particularly if the content is shared without consent.

    5. What role does digital parenting play in preventing sexting?

    Digital parenting is crucial in guiding children to have a responsible and safe digital experience. It involves teaching them about privacy, online safety, and responsible digital citizenship.