The Institute for Public Policy Research, a progressive think-tank based in the UK, will release a report next month that highlights the growing concerns of a generation raised online.
According to IPPR's research four out of five 5-15 year olds have access to the Internet at home. Eight out of ten 12-15 year olds have their own cell phone. Additionally, children are spending more than 20 hours a week online - which is three times previous estimates. The research also showed that many children are staying up late into the night and leave their cell phones on all night just in case they receive a text message.
The report also found that 57% of children have been exposed to pornography online, despite the fact that many were using computers with filters. One 14-year old boy said filters don't work: “We have restrictions at school but we can just get an administrator’s account and take them off”
Kate Withers wrote the report: “The internet offers great benefits and opportunities for young people. But with kids spending an ever increasing amount of time online parents need to be reassured about what they are looking at." Ms. Withers said that government sponsored educational campaigns are important, "But more importantly internet companies need to take more responsibility for the content on their sites and promote acceptable behaviour."
The report recommends that government do more to identify and address problems with ineffective measures meant to protect children online. The report suggests that where possible government should encourage the industry to make progress, but if it does not government should take action.
The CP80 Foundation is pleased to offer free training to individuals who wish to learn more about the Internet, pornography, current laws and the CP80 Internet Channel Initiative.
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