Cyberwise Chats

Teens might use the phrase “you’re canceled” in jest, but some are taking it a step farther and actually blocking, unfollowing, and boycotting peers on social media (and in real life) because of a personal opinion or for simply saying/doing something disagreeable. “Cancel Culture” has made its way into classrooms and into teen peer groups. This new form of cyberbullying has many parents concerned about how it’s affecting their kids.

From the "Cereal Challenge" to the "Penny Challenge," the "Blackout Challenge" and more, viral challenges born and spread on the popular app, TikTok, range from silly to downright dangerous. In this Cyberwise Chat, Dr. Pamela Rutledge and Diana Graber talk to Parentology's Editor-in-Chief, Rick Andreoli about some of the most outrageous TikTok Challenges, and what parents should know about them. Help your kids use technology safely and wisely. 

Some prominent public figures have had their social media accounts revoked--on Twitter, Instagram, and more--for conduct that violates the sites' terms of use, and kids are watching! In this Cyberwise Chat, we discuss how to talk to kids about these events and how it influences their own social media behavior.

2020 is gone, but COVID is still here. That means many of us are still relying on tech--for learning, work, and socialization. Listen to this Cyberwise Chat to find out what tech tools your family can use to thrive in 2021.

Dr. Pamela Rutledge, Director of the Media Psychology Research Center, and Diana Graber, author of "Raising Humans in a Digital World," answer your questions about tech and human behavior. This week find out if your child is ready for the most popular holiday gift... the cellphone.

Here we answer your questions about how to use technology (and which tech to use) to stay connected with family and friends during our COVID-holidays. Be sure to download the show notes to get access to the resources discussed.