Childhood in the digital age

This chapter discusses childhood in the digital age. Media studies researchers examine the ‘media effects’ of digital technologies. In this field, debate has emerged on the negative and positive effects of digital usage by children since the internet was established. The proposed General Comment by the Committee on the Rights of the Child reflects the seriousness with which the possible effects, or ‘perils’, of digital media have been regarded. The digital divide is proving stubbornly persistent in terms of access to broadband internet, including the challenge of extending last-mile access to infrastructure to remote and rural communities. The welfare, authoritarian and laissez-faire models help in interpreting digital use and policy. The emergence of digital technology has made it easier for child sexual predators to contact potential victims around the world, share images of their abuse and encourage each other to commit further crimes. Research indicates that digital technology seems to, overall, be beneficial for children’s social relationships.