Over 75 per cent of parents believe they are unable to control and monitor their children’s use of the Internet as they do not know enough about it, according to a new study released today.
The study, carried out by Internet consultants Amárach on behalf of the Internet Advisory Board is the first of its kind in Ireland.
Almost 80 per cent of parents say they have rules (mainly about forbidden websites) and 60 per cent say that they have discussed potential Internet dangers with children. However, 40 per cent of children who use the Internet at home say they usually access it when alone and only 60 per cent are aware of Internet access restrictions.
Access to pornography is the biggest parental concern about the Internet. Other concerns include exposure to unsuitable people such as paedophiles and anti social material.
But the majority of parents are positive about the Internet. Around 60 per cent agree that the positive aspects of Internet use among children outweigh the negatives while 70 per cent of children agree that the Internet is very important for their schoolwork.