Social Media is Permanent Media

Once upon a time there was a telephone.  Someone started saying something cruel or nasty or unwanted, you hang up.  And before that there was ... and on and on.  In the old days people made angry comments, shouted harsh words, and created untruths.  If that happened, the lines were disconnected and it was over.

Not true today.  Social Media has made casual conversations between friends a lasting memoir that can be reviewed and repeated.  The words are out there forever and for everybody to read and see and send on.  Trying to convince some that social media is a great and a dangerous technology tool appears to be very difficult.  Mistakes and hurt feelings continue despite warnings.

In a nearby school district the images and words on a devise made the newspapers.  Without a doubt there are kids and families upset and offended.  There will be investigations and accusations about something posted days before.  And those hurtful, harmful images and words will always be out there.  Knowing the correct search words they can reappear and potentially cause more harm.

Communication is important.  Facebook and other social platforms have provided hours of fun between distant family members and separated friends.  Grandparents have those boasting pictures from many miles away instantly.  Special moments are shared world wide in real time.  We share in lives and events that would have been impossible a few years ago.

What is on your phone, or iPad, or notebook or laptop?  Is that image something that improves your chances at getting a job or sharing with ones you love?  Would those permanent words add joy to the life of the person being mentioned?

Children make mistakes.  That is part of growing up and maturing.    What do or would you do to protect your child from danger and harm?  Are you doing the same with the social media your are providing (and usually paying for) your child?  Responsibility is not instinctive.  It has to be learned.  Once a child has access to the internet, all is possible and all of it remains permanent.