Learn More About Teen Online Abuse and Harassment

Online Sexual Harassment:  

As anti-bullying programs become more necessary in our school systems and communities, the internet remains an elusive space that threatens the safety and well-being of our youth. The internet can be a dangerous place for any age, but especially young adults who are so captivated by the online world and susceptible to unsafe trends, information, and relationships. The internet has created a platform for verbal, financial, and sexual abuse to occur 24/7 with a frightening permanence that can be hard for youth to comprehend.

Young adults are most often the victims of leaked and non-consensually shared intimate photos, and the anonymous nature of the internet makes it harder for adults to find out and help. The current culture often continues the trauma for victims of online abuse through persistent shaming, which worsens the impact for kids who have trouble escaping the online world. Adults responsible for protecting our youth should keep up with the current internet dangers and stay involved in their kids’ online worlds without being overbearing.

Teaching safe internet use and the permanent implications of inappropriate online interactions is the most effective preventative for keeping our youth safe.  

Sexual/Dating violence in Indigenous youth  

It’s unfortunately no surprise that Indigenous youth are at a greater risk of being victims of dating or sexual abuse due to generational trauma, generational poverty and lack of aid, and colonialism that has white-washed Indigenous culture and severed their youth’s connection to traditions and Native pride. Being subjected to abuse while still developing can lead to eating disorders, substance abuse, engaging in risky behavior, and poor school performances, which are already issues prominent in the Native community. 

The biggest protective factor for Indigenous youth is their culture and helping them stay invested in a community that can relate and support them in a unique way. Helping adults maintain close relationships with their kids can be done through providing secure housing services, parenting classes, and food sovereignty. Communities should focus on education that covers peer leadership for men and boys, healthy relationship skills, and coping and supportive services that specialize in Native needs. 

The Indigenous culture is the best tool for combating abusive behaviors, and more services need to be provided to cultivate and promote their roots to youth.