Teens Engage in Risky Behavior Online Less than Believed

A new study by Cox Communications has focused on the way teens treat privacy issues either online or through mobile phones. The study has found that, while many say they are aware of the risks, they engage in potentially dangerous behavior anyway. The research has been done in collaboration with National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and the host of the “America's Most Wanted” show, John Walsh, and has focused on cyberbullying and the practice of sending revealing images either through mobile phones or online.

The study has found that many teens, namely 40 percent, believe that publishing private information or photos online is “somewhat unsafe,” while only 19 percent consider it is “very unsafe.” Another seven percent don't see any danger in this kind of behavior, whereas 41 percent think that it is “somewhat safe.” But, while most of them would agree there is a risk involved, 62 percent have posted photos of themselves, with a further 50 percent revealing their real age, 45 percent the school they go to, and 41 percent sharing the name of their city. However, only 14 percent of them share their phone number, nine percent their regularly visited places, and just four percent their address.

When it comes to cyberbullying, one-third of those surveyed have been involved or have friends who have been involved in such behavior. However, only 19 percent say they have been cyberbullied, and just ten percent have done it to others. A further 27 percent have seen or heard of a friend being cyberbullied, while 16 percent have seen or heard of a friend doing it to others.

The other major focus of the study has shown that 20 percent of teens have sent or received a revealing photo or video of themselves. However, only nine percent actually sent a photo or video, whereas 17 percent have received one. Another three percent have forwarded such content. Most of them, 74 percent, believe that the practice is wrong, while 23 percent think that it is fine if both parties have agreed to it, and only three percent believe that there is nothing wrong with it.