CMC in Personal Relationships Chp19

Oh the dark side of the internet, what a scary place. I really liked the position this book took to the dangers of internet use by young adults. Even though their is very little in the way of data in the areas of online solicitation, harassment, and bullying what is clear is that the internet does not seem to be responsible for creating the problem. Even more encouraging is the fact that the problem is not as prevalent as parents seem to have thought. The internet does not encourage these behaviors but is simply used as a tool the perpetrators use just like any other technology. I didn't find it surprising that most incidents  or habits formed offline and then moved to an online interface. As someone who grew up with the internet I agree that most of the time such interactions are mild and simply ignored or laughed at by the intended victim. I also agree with the assertion that a strong family relationship at home is the best way to prevent anything from happening to your child. As the data showed those with preexisting offline issues and poor family environments were the most likely to end up being victims online and off. Playing a large role in your child's online activities and knowing which ITC channels are most dangerous (chat rooms) is the best defense. I must say I found the section on online gaming hilarious. As someone who has played online games for most of my life in some form or fashion it is not the medium that brings out these problems. If someone is emotionally distressed from playing a game then its usually an issue with the players not the game. Most games are competitive in nature and as such someone usually has to lose and this brings a lot of negative emotions out of people. This is an important distinction as most other forms of ITC are not overtly competitive in any way. In additions most games online have a support staff of administrators to deal with personal issues that can arise between players just like a referee in a football game. If a person is emotionally troubled by something someone said or did in a game then its a problem, the games, location wether online or on a soccer pitch is irrelevant.