Technology application, Teenagers -- Technology application, Youth -- Technology application, Parenting -- Technology application, and Social media -- Usage

Social media and smartphone applications have turned into an avenue for teenagers to explore their identity and the world around them. Fearful parents tend to track, monitor and block their teenagers' access to the Internet and impose more restrictions. Such parenting techniques do not help teenagers develop the skills necessary to manage complex social situations. Teenagers need the freedom to navigate the digital world but they also need to be aware that their parents are interested in knowing what they do online.