Many people prefer group chats to wider social networking platforms, which involve a relentless stream of updates from our contacts – regardless of whether we actually want to know what they’ve been up to. By contrast, group chats offer us greater control over who we communicate with, and more privacy while we’re doing it. That doesn’t mean, however, that they’re without jeopardy. The pressure of contributing to a conversation that lots of other people can see and comment on can make group chats an incredibly stressful situation for young users – and that’s far from the only potential risk. Our online safety guide highlights what trusted adults need to be aware of.
Currently, group chatting is most popular among Millennials. Data from the USA, for example, reports that – whether they’re using WhatsApp, Snapchat, Facebook Messenger or any other platform – almost half (44%) of that 18–34 age bracket take part in at least one collective online conversation every day. This is relevant because, of course, the schoolchildren of today are the 18–34s of tomorrow. Just like the current crop, online group communication will facilitate their blossoming social lives and expanding friendship networks. NOS’ #WakeUpWednesday guide will help you to prepare young people for participating in online group chats safely and compassionately.
