Abstract:

There has been a recent and drastic increase in computer and Internet use. Children and adolescents constitute the age groups by whom these technologies are used the most. Different opinions emerge regarding the right time, duration and method of exposing children and adolescents to these technologies. Empirical findings reveal that these technologies may serve as either a threat or opportunity in accordance with the nature of use. On the other hand, contemporary scientific approaches try to survive under the influence of outlier political approaches which are either regarding safe Internet use precautions as ‘absolute good’ or as ‘suppressing freedom’. In this regard, the current study briefly discusses the use of computers and Internet among children and adolescents. Then, empirical studies regarding computer and Internet use as a threat or as an opportunity are interpreted with a holistic approach. Current literature on physical, cognitive and psycho-social implications of computer and Internet use were cited, and both positive and negative viewpoints were considered. Finally, recommendations were provided with regard to current implementations

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