Webcams, drinking & eating disorders

Teens + Webcams = Trouble? - NYTimes just recently posted an article on the unrestrictive nature of sites like Stickam.com that are virtually impossible to filter content due the the real-time nature of web cams. Moreover, they're reporting that teens are beginning to flock to these sites because of the freedom it gives. Be aware and be in the know. This site, and others, are on the watch list of child safety advocates.

Teens are drinking...alot - The government just released a study revealing that of the teens polled, 45% of them admit to drinking in the past month. 64% of those were bing drinking.

Remember Pro-Ana? - Teens who read about dieting are three times more likely to try risky dieting methods related to anorexia and bulimia (FoxNews.com). Eating disorders don't always look like under-weight bodies. It often hides itself in the minds of those who look "normal." For more information on eating disorders like "constant dieting," take a look at Finding Balance, a Christian organization aimed at helping people who always feel like they need to diet.

Do you know about "Pro-Ana?"

The internet offers a wide array of content. Some that's helpful, and some that can do more harm than good. A recent study, posted on Fox.com, states that teens are using pro-anorexia, or "pro-ana" sites to get ideas on how to achieve that "perfect" body. It's sad, but true. The challenge? Know what your students are influenced by and be proactive.