In our effort to bring you the latest information on hot topics related to Internet Safety, we have invited guest bloggers to post relevant articles on our site. This blog is provided by one of our friends of SafetyClicks, Netsmartz Workshop, written by Amani Rushing.
When social networking site MySpace announced the removal of 90,000 registered sex offenders from its websites many heard the word "pedophile" instead. For any concerned parents or guardians, hearing this may have prompted them to get their children off of these sites right away. After all, if 90,000 pedophiles were removed from the site, how many might still be on? But before pulling the social networking plug, parents should take a minute to recognize the distinctions between the words "sex offender" and "pedophile." Understanding the differences may help parents and guardians better understand the risks their children may encounter online.
• Sex Offender – Any person convicted of a sex crime. These crimes may vary from public urination or indecent exposure to sexual assault against a person of any age.
• Pedophile – An adult sexually attracted to a pubescent or prepubescent child or children.
The distinction between these terms is critical. When they are used interchangeably, they may strike fear among parents and guardians, possibly skewing their perceptions about potential online risks. For example, if parents or guardians believe that 90,000 pedophiles were discovered on MySpace, they may (understandably) spend all of their time focusing on social networking risks and pay less attention to other online risks, such as cyberbullies, scammers, and children revealing inappropriate information.
This is not meant to downplay the importance of keeping children safer online. Instead, it helps everyone stay grounded and more aware of the potential risks in order to take the appropriate steps to keep the children in our lives safer, whether six or sixteen. So the next time you come across a headline that reads something like this, "Social Networking Sites Overrun with Sex Offenders" you'll know to be ready to act-without overreacting.
Amani Rushing, NetSmartz Workshop
Amani Rushing graduated from Stanford University in 2003. She volunteered with a university student group before joining the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) as a Project Coordinator. Working on projects like the AAAS Family Science Days helped Amani discover a passion for education which led her to the NetSmartz Workshop. As a member of the Content Team, Amani puts her creative writing background to good use by brainstorming fun, new ways for children to learn about Internet and real world safety.
