By Sara Migler, JCADA Intern
As a senior in high school, I see firsthand how social media sites like Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat dominate the lives of teenagers, including myself. Social media is an extremely important part of our lives. This prominent communication tool for kids, teenagers, and young adults can also provide a dangerous platform for users to control, manipulate and be abusive towards their peers.
February is Teen Dating
Violence Awareness Month and during this month, it is important for us to understand
the difference between healthy and harmful social media and technology use in a
relationship. Technological abuse is defined as disrupting or manipulating someone’s personal life and using social
media or communication devices to harass them.
Technological abuse is a
common tool abusive partners use to gain power and control in a
relationship. What are ways someone can
use technology to control their partner? Check out the images below from That’s Not Cool Tumblr
for some common examples of technology dating abuse.
For more examples of
technology dating abuse, go to That’s Not Cool’s Tumblr!
While some of the movie clips and pictures are funny, it is important that we
are able to recognize the warning signs of an abusive relationship.
For tips on how to stay
safe while using technology, visit AWARE's Technology Safety
page.
