As young adults encounter increasingly harmful content online, parents and teens are communicating differently about internet safety, according to new research from the McCain Institute. The study of 800 adults and 600 youth, part of the Institute’s ongoing “R.E.A.L. Friends Don’t” (RFD) campaign, uncovered critical shifts and persistent barriers in how families are approaching social media.
“With teens increasingly shaped by what they encounter online, it’s essential for parents and caregivers to foster open dialogue about their digital interactions,” said Corban Teague, Director of the Human Rights & Freedom Program at the McCain Institute. “Discussing what real friends do—and don’t—share in private online spaces can help teens navigate these influences safely and wisely.”
Key findings include:
More Conversations Around Key Online Risks: Parents are having more discussions with their teens on critical topics like sexting, online grooming, and chatting with strangers. The percentage of parents who report discussing strangers online rose to 79% from 73% in 2023.These discussions are more crucial than ever as teens are exposed too diverse, sometimes divisive, voices online.
Teens’ Growing Engagement in Online Safety: Teens increasingly recognize the importance of discussing online behaviors with parents. This year, 70% of teens emphasized the importance of conversations about re-sharing nude photos, compared to 64% a year earlier, while teens acknowledging the importance of discussing sexting increased to 68% from 65%.
Challenges in Bridging Communication Gaps: Despite positive trends, many parents still hesitate to initiate certain discussions, often believing their children are too young. This persistent barrier points to a need for further support to help parents address a broader range of online influences, especially as younger generations are increasingly drawn to the voices and viewpoints shared on social media.
The report also reveals that while general awareness of online safety campaigns overall remains moderate, familiarity with the resources provided by “R.E.A.L. Friends Don’t”—available online and on social media—can empower parents and caregivers with accessible tools that teens can turn to when they need help navigating their increasingly online lives.
Download the full report here.
