Children, teens, and sex on the internet

Abstract

With the growth of the number of Internet users and access to an increasing number of web sites and a variety of materials, there exists a concern about access to adult-oriented materials by underaged persons. This article uses Grounded Theory to address (a) the limited but growing knowledge of the area, (b) ways in which children and teens can access this material, (c) positives and negatives associated with developing online relationships that can become sexual, (d) the growing concerns regarding children's access to adult-oriented materials, and (e) the potential short- and long-term affects. This article also addresses recommendations for the future regarding ways to guide youth about the potential hazards associated with the use of online adult-oriented web sites, ways to reduce the incidence of children and teens accessing these materials, and useful prevention strategies.