Child Protection: The Social Media Angle

The need to be relevant in the social media space has made many adults ignore the fact that every child has a right to protection from all forms of harmful practices including those from social media.

CASE IN POINT

The story of the10 years old Chrisland school girl in Lagos is a case in point. I find it appalling that adults rushed to download the immoral tape she produced with her schoolmates while left unsupervised and share it with friends and family. They also called her derogatory names, blamed her, and made biased judgments against her. One thing they all failed to do was to protect this 10-year-old child from cyberbullying and mental or physical breakdown as a result of their action which escalated the story.

This is just one case out of the many negative stories about children being circulated on different social media platforms without any form of protection for the children who are often the victims because people are more concerned about increasing their social media presence or remaining relevant.

So, before posting, commenting or using any trending child-related content on any social media or online platform:

1. Pause and verify the story, source and other necessary information.

2. Cover the child's face before posting negative content about that child.

3. Avoid using the child's real name, location or any information that would expose that child's true identity.

4. Avoid the indiscriminate sharing of links, videos or pictures that could escalate the issue.

5. Avoid the use of derogatory words when describing the incident or the child involved.

6. Remember to avoid reposting people's personal views, and opinions except if it's a report or update from an authorized source or relevant authorities.

7. Avoid making threats and baseless comparisons.

8. Avoid blaming anyone and offering your help except you are an authority in such a field and you've been invited to help.

9. Remember to post updates and correct any wrong information previously posted for the clarity and protection of the child.

10. Remember that the internet NEVER forgets and any damage caused by your post will have adverse effects on the child's future.

Keep the child safe always!