Why Children Are Unsafe in Cyberspace

https://www.bcg.com/publications/2022/why-children-are-unsafe-in-cyberspace

"The risks children face online are growing, and the current responses aren’t nearly enough. Fixing the problem will require a comprehensive global strategy."

Boston Consulting Group looked at the cyber risks young kids are facing online such as bullying, inappropriate content, sexually explicit material, digital addiction. and more. According to this BCG study, almost every child anywhere in the world is on the internet by age 12, and 81% of children go online daily—with almost 45% online for more than three hours per day. A lot of the issues that BCG identified are written about and discussed but I don't feel digital addiction gets enough attention or the weight it deserves.

As I took a longer look at digital addiction, its clear that it has become a growing problem among children since the COVID pandemic. With the increase of digital devices and the ease of access to the internet, children are spending more and more time glued to screens. The effects of digital addiction on children can be profound. Children who spend extended periods of time on digital devices are at risk of experiencing academic problems, as their ability to concentrate and focus on learning may diminish. This can lead to a reduction in grades and overall academic performance. Additionally, spending excessive time online can result in social isolation, as children may prefer to spend time alone in front of screens rather than engaging in face-to-face interactions with peers.

The negative consequences of digital addiction also extend to mental health. Children who spend prolonged periods of time on digital devices are at risk of developing anxiety and depression. The constant bombardment of social media and the internet can lead to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem, particularly when comparing themselves to their peers. In extreme cases, digital addiction can lead to behavioral disorders, such as ADHD or Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

It is crucial to recognize the seriousness of digital addiction and take steps to address it. Parents need to monitor their children's usage of digital devices and set clear boundaries for screen time. Parents should also encourage their children to engage in other activities, such as outdoor play or creative hobbies, which can help promote physical and mental well-being. Schools can also play a role in addressing digital addiction by incorporating digital literacy education into the curriculum.

I believe that the overuse of digital devices is a problem that can be fixed. BCG did a great job at studying these cyberspace issues for children globally and it's a great way to start thinking about and building policy to help children live a more successful and balanced life.