Assignment Re-submission

Teen Sexualisation, Bullying and Social Media

There has been a great deal of debate over the years about children being “sexualised” and influenced by the media. It has caused an increasing number of parents to become more activity interested in the way media are using advertising. They are concerned about the messages that their children, especially pre-teens, are exposed to via advertising in the media and that when they are shopping; they are finding it increasingly difficult to buy items of clothing that are not sexualising their children.

Many parents are also concerned about the links of the ‘sexualisation’ of children and the link to on line bullying. This has been an argument when dealing with on line bullying, and the recent case of Amanda Todd, who was bullied and harassed by an on line sexual predator. However, as Amanda Rishworth wrote on the 4th February 2010, “At the heart of the issue is the reality that sex sells” (http://www.alp.org.au/blogs/alp-blog/february-2010/sexualisation-and-objectification-of-young-women-a/).

What is not answered is the power of the parents when they are shopping for their children and young teens. During reading for this piece, there is little about the buying power of the parents and is not fully explored.  In addition, there is little if any written that peer pressure has always been something that has faced people.

With the use of the internet by teens to communicate after hours, often on laptops and out of view, the on line influences are being felt but not always seen by parents or family members until it is too late. Many teens are using technology that was not around when their parents were teens. Bullying itself has been going on for generations, both within schools and workplaces. However, with the advent of the internet and mobile phones, the bullies are able to contact their victims around the clock.

 
Society is struggling to equip both pre-teens and young teens with the skills to ensure they don’t fall victim to online messages and to be discerning regarding the information that they are accessing. The messages have always been around. It is just that now these messages are more accessible to a wider audience, an audience who are also accessing these messages at a younger age. This is not necessarily the fault of the young or medium used. What is needed is a proactive approach rather than a reactive response.

As a Scout Leader, I am aware that many are concerned with the influences that impact upon their children as well as the amount of time they are spending using social media and watching television. It is due to this concern that many are encouraging their children and pre-teens to get involved with activities, such as scouts, sports and other recreational activities to provide a balance.

 There are resources out there that parents can link into to help them cope with the many issues faced by themselves on both issues raised here. There are several that are definitely worth looking at and I have listed them here for people to check if they wish to have a look:

Carly Ryan Foundation

http://www.carlyryanfoundation.com

The Line
http://www.theline.gov.au/home

 Bullying. No Way!

http://bullyingnoway.gov.au/

I would be interested in hearing people’s views on this issue and invite readers to leave comments blow.