Every young person needs a trusted adult to turn if they encounter anything on the web that makes them feel uncomfortable, vulnerable, attacked, demeaned, extorted and more. That trusted adult is often a parent or grandparent, other family member, adult neighbor, or teacher – be sure the young people in your life have one!
A trusted adult has expressed their openness, respect, and willingness not to judge a young person. When approached, ask what kind of help they need and let their discussion guide your response. Is it a hug? Brainstorming a solution? Getting the police involved with photos of posts?
Too many dire situations occur on social media platforms that are embarrassing, compromising, pressure-packed and adolescents can be ashamed to bring them to adults, or they believe they can handle the situations on their own. But this is not the case. We have lost too many adolescents who have kept sextortion or cyberbullying to themselves. Be a Trusted Adult!
Read more here: Being-A Trusted Adult (missingkids.org)