Virtual worlds expose young children to the many potential that could be extremist. Via subjection to violent propaganda online or through extremist networks, children can be groomed to get involved in more extremist views. Alarmingly, 75% of young children have their own digital devices connected to cyberspace. However, the average age of the child is 12 to have their first mobile phone device. It means that kids are exposed to the virtual world at such a young age and may become the victim of radicalization. Therefore, child radicalization needs to be stopped, otherwise after a decade world will have to face a generation with extremist and fundamental believes that would unstable the world’s peace.
Journal of Children & Media: Emma Morris says
- Cell phones, Computers, social media, and children’s websites could be the portals of dangerous places on earth.
- Strangers with extreme ideology can groom children to be radical in their bedrooms.
- Social media these days is the biggest weapon of violent extremists
- Radical people have technical skills and proficiency, causing challenges for Governments, Law enforcement, religious leaders, schools, and parents
What parents need to know
- Radical groups usually target young children via social networks
- Radical elements attract young kids through conversations on social networks
- Extremists usually don’t unveil their real identity to their young target children
How Radical extremist exploit young children to their ideology
- They take advantage of vulnerable young kid’s insecurities
- They answer their questions and offer them a sense of identity
- They shaped & groomed their beliefs according to their extremist ideology
- They become mentors & friends of children with their best interest at heart
Sings that your child is being radicalized
- Your child may have feeling that their religion is under threat
- Adopting intolerant views of others
- The desperate need for identity & belonging
- Always try to stay secretive about who they talk to online
- Don’t take an interest in mainstream media anymore
- Possessive of digital devices
- Increased level of anger
Impact of Radicalization on Children
- A child can run from house & family
- Join Violent & highly dangerous groups
- Become cold-blooded & get criminal thoughts
How to Protect Children From Radicalization Online?
- Discuss with your child about radicalization
- Win your children’s trust
- Don’t be angry & listen to your child’s problems
- Guide your child. Don’t hide anything if someone persuades them online for anything.
- Ask your child about their online friends & activities
- Set parental control on kids’ digital devices to prevent youth radicalization online
