Video games offer a fun escape and an opportunity for teens to connect with friends, but they also come with hidden risks like online predators, cyberbullying, and addiction. Understanding these dangers and using tools like parental controls, monitoring habits, and open communication can help parents protect their teens while encouraging healthy gaming habits.

Following the tragic suicide of a 14-year-old boy, it was revealed that he had been engaging in conversations with an online AI character with whom he had formed an emotional connection. This heartbreaking case raises critical questions: Did interactions with this AI contribute to his downward spiral, ultimately influencing his decision to end his life? Did the AI character’s responses inadvertently encourage these thoughts and what can you do to best help protect your family from this new technology?

In a world where teens live their lives online, a simple post or friend request can have lasting consequences.
Social media plays a central role in teens’ lives, allowing them to connect, share, and stay informed. While it offers positive opportunities, it also poses risks such as cyberbullying and online predators, especially when privacy settings aren’t managed correctly. What steps can you take as a parent to protect your child?