This article is part of the “Tween Tech” series, which examines social media applications frequently utilized by children. In this installment, we focus on Instagram and Vine, two prominent platforms for sharing photos and videos. Previous articles have discussed Snapchat and Jott.
Overview:
Instagram, a platform owned by Facebook, is a widely used app that allows users to share images and videos. Similarly, Vine, which is under Twitter’s ownership, serves as a platform for sharing brief video clips.
Popularity Among Teens and Tweens:
Instagram, often referred to as “Insta,” and Vine are appealing to younger audiences for the same reasons they attract adults. These platforms provide a straightforward and enjoyable means of self-expression through visual content, enhanced by features such as filters. Moreover, children are often motivated by the validation that comes from accumulating followers, likes, and comments.
Importance of Awareness:
Many parents who restrict their tweens from using Facebook may view Instagram and Vine as safer alternatives. While this perception may hold true under supervision, many parents are often unaware of potential issues associated with these apps, including cyberbullying, location tagging, and exposure to inappropriate content.
User Statistics:
According to the Pew Research Center, 52% of teenagers aged 13 to 17 engage with Instagram, while 24% use Vine. Although anecdotal evidence suggests that tweens are using these platforms, it is important to note that users must be 13 years old to create accounts, making it challenging to monitor underage usage.
Usage Patterns:
Children share a wide variety of content, ranging from images of pets and meals to numerous selfies and even personal notes. One parent noted surprise at discovering that her 12-year-old and friends were posting their class schedules on Instagram. This illustrates how Instagram has evolved into a significant social networking platform, similar to Facebook.
Monitoring Usage:
If your child under 13 has an iPhone or Wi-Fi-enabled device, you can link their account to yours through the “Family Sharing” settings in iTunes. This feature requires parental approval for app downloads, allowing you to restrict access to Instagram and Vine. If you choose to allow an account, encourage your child to set their profile to “private,” approve followers, limit personal information, and disable location services. Regularly following their posts and reviewing comments is also advisable.
Reassurance for Parents:
If your child maintains a private account and you actively monitor their interactions, Instagram can be a suitable platform for older tweens and teens. However, Vine presents additional challenges due to its content, which is rated 17+ as opposed to Instagram’s 12+. Therefore, if your child has a strong interest in video, it may be prudent to limit their activities to Instagram.
Concerns to Consider:
Both Instagram and Vine can expose children to bullying, whether through overt negative comments or the subtle pain of seeing social gatherings they weren’t invited to. Additionally, both platforms place significant emphasis on popularity, with users seeking followers and likes. Inappropriate content is prevalent on both sites, with Vine making it particularly accessible. It’s crucial to monitor who follows your child and what location information they share, as predators may seek out potential victims through these apps. Ensure your child understands that posted images can be viewed by anyone, even with a private account.
Furthermore, users can access any public page without following it, creating opportunities for anonymous bullying. Some schools have witnessed the emergence of anonymous Instagram accounts dedicated to mocking students or teachers, leading to harmful situations where victims may be unaware of the bullying.
Lastly, both platforms enable direct messaging, which can pose risks as users have limited control over who can message them. This aspect warrants attention from parents to safeguard their children.
In conclusion, while Instagram and Vine offer enjoyable avenues for self-expression and social connection, it is vital for parents to engage in ongoing discussions about acceptable online behavior and to remain vigilant in monitoring their child’s digital interactions. Additionally, for those interested in enhancing their fertility journey, resources like this fertility booster and guidance on couples’ fertility journeys can be valuable. For further information about pregnancy, consider exploring the March of Dimes resources.
Summary:
Parents should be aware of the influence of Instagram and Vine on tweens and teens, understanding both their appeal and the potential risks they pose, such as bullying and exposure to inappropriate content. Monitoring these platforms and maintaining open communication is essential for ensuring safe usage.
Keyphrase: Social media safety for tweens
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