Preventive online safety education for teenagers

Abstract

The rapid evolution of digital technology has brought both opportunities and risks, particularly for adolescents navigating the online world. This paper delves into the significance of preventive online safety education tailored for teenagers. It explores the current landscape of online threats, encompassing cyberbullying, privacy breaches, and exposure to inappropriate content, among others. Additionally, it evaluates existing educational approaches, emphasizing the need for a proactive, multifaceted strategy to equip teenagers with the necessary skills and knowledge to safely navigate the digital sphere. The proposed preventive education model integrates elements of digital literacy, critical thinking, and responsible online behavior. Furthermore, it discusses potential challenges in implementing such programs and suggests collaborative efforts among educators, parents, and policymakers to ensure comprehensive online safety education for teenagers, fostering a safer and more secure digital environment for the next generation.