One in three parents have not set rules with their teen children about online

The research, which surveyed 1,000 parents of 13-19 year olds, revealed that 70% do not fully comprehend their teens’ online activities.

And almost half (46%) find it challenging to discuss online safety with their children due to fear of providing incorrect advice.

The survey found that 52% of parents reported their child spends a significant amount of time on the internet; gaming, watching videos and socialising.

Over two-thirds confessed their teens are more knowledgeable about the online world than they are, although 57% expressed interest in learning more about it from them.

The study was commissioned by TikTok, which is initiating a new Digital Safety Partnership for Families, supported by Internet Matters, to emphasise the importance of open discussions between parents and their teens regarding online safety.

Valiant Richey, global head of outreach and partnerships – Trust & Safety at the video-sharing platform, said: “Better awareness of the online world allows parents to have open conversations about what is appropriate and what isn’t, fostering trust and open communication.

“Being involved doesn’t mean monitoring every move but rather being aware enough to offer support and direction when needed.This is why we aim to empower young people to make smart choices and feel safe and confident in their online interactions.”

“We like to say, ‘know the rules, use the tools’, as we know that for parents, knowledge truly is power when it comes to nurturing digital responsibility and safety in their homes.”

The study revealed that 61% of parents have made a deliberate effort to become more tech-savvy, considering themselves more informed than they were five years ago.

However, a significant 64% still find it difficult to keep pace with online trends, and 15% don’t utilise the same platforms as their teenagers, making it harder to provide guidance.

While over half (56%) believe it’s their duty to oversee their teens’ online activities, parents also agree that teenagers and online platforms have to accept responsibiltiy for the way teens use social media.

Two-thirds (62%) have established guidelines with their children regarding their online behaviour. Yet, although 70% are aware of parental control features on social media apps, only 22% are familiar with them and utilise them, while an additional 33% who are aware of these tools have no intention of using them.

The Digital Safety Partnership aims to empower families to cultivate safe online practices and can be adapted across all digital spaces, encouraging teenagers to openly discuss such matters.

Valiant Richey added: “Our goal is to make everyone feel safe and empowered online.”

“We’re equipping families with the tools and insights to engage teens in meaningful discussions about digital wellbeing, building confidence and understanding as they navigate the digital world together.”