Online Experiences as a Cultural Driving Change: The Case of Children and Adolescents in Colombia

Early adolescence represents a challenging time with multiple and rapid changes influencing development. Digital media have become an important ecosystem in which adolescents develop biologically, psychologically, and socially. In Colombia, about 96% of adolescents and young adults are members of at least one online social network; of those, 97% use it to be connected with family or friends (2017). Interestingly, internet access in 11-to-21-yeard-olds is widespread by cell phone (70%) or computer (99%) with some users spending over four hours connected daily (Gimenez, et al. 2017). Despite this substantial online presence, there is very little information in Colombia regarding how to introduce young children and youth to the benefits of the digital revolution and when to discourage it for its potential risks. The present study aimed at understanding issues related to young children and adolescents’ internet access, online opportunities and risks, and safe internet use, taking into account their voices, in their own contexts. Method: Participants included a randomized sample of 225 9-17-year-olds and their parents, recruited from diverse schools located in two regions of Colombia. Questionnaires were administered to participants to assess internet use. In addition, parents completed a questionnaire assessing children/adolescents’ internet use. Results: Results indicate that younger children are using internet sooner than before and that they are sharing personal information with people they do not previously know. Additionally, children and young adults are using internet to get connected with parents and friends as distraction or compensation for frustrated attachment needs. Conclusion: This study increased our understanding of the issues and opportunities associated with internet use by young children and adolescents in Colombia and provides ways to support beneficial use of the digital environment while providing evidence to inform future research, policy, and practice.