Location Sharing Apps: Some Pros and Cons for Parents to Consider
By: Joni Boyd
Do you have a location sharing app on your phone?
Has it been beneficial – or has it caused problems for you, or for your family?
Adolescent psychologist Collett Smart spoke to us about some things to keep in mind when it comes to using or not using location sharing.
“I’m also a parent and I’m in the middle of raising my own teens,” Collett said. “I know that raising teens can be fun and busy, but also terrifying and even lonely. We’re all caring for the teens we love so much.
“Some say they want to be able to check where their teens are, and it gives them a bit of peace of mind.”
Collett shares her top tips on navigating the world of location sharing apps:
Balance trust and privacy
Location sharing apps can be great, but Collett warns – if misused, they can break down trust in the parent/child relationship.
It’s important to find the balance between trust and privacy. Location apps shouldn’t be used in a situation where mistrust is an issue, Collett advises.
“Secrecy and checking devices or spying on teens usually just breaks down trust.”
Collett explains that like all of us, teens value their privacy and are more likely to respect boundaries and location apps when they themselves feel respected.
“No child likes to feel like they’re being controlled by a parent,” she said. “We need to keep emphasizing mutual trust and mutual respect in the family.”
Open communication is a must
Communicating openly is essential for using location tracking apps harmoniously within the family.
It’s important to discuss the apps with your teens, explaining why and how they could be used, leaving room for their input.
Maintaining balance in tech use is an ongoing process, for everyone. As teens grow and develop, their need for privacy and autonomy increases. It is really important for parents to regularly reassess the boundaries and use of location sharing apps, Collett advises.
Periodically reassess the necessity and impact of these apps to adapt to your teen’s growing need for independence. Mutual respect and open communication are pivotal.
Model healthy tech use
We all know it, but it’s easier said than done: parents should exemplify balanced, respectful tech habits, reinforcing mutual trust in the family.
And remember: these tools should foster trust and respect, not control; ensuring healthy emotional and developmental growth for teens, says Collett.
In fostering your teens’ growth towards independence and responsibility, it’s not just about monitoring their physical whereabouts but also about guiding them to develop healthy digital habits.
Article supplied with thanks to Hope Media.
Feature image: Photo by Brooke Cagle on Unsplash
About the Author: Joni Boyd is a writer, based in the Hawkesbury Region of NSW. She is passionate about the power of stories shared, to transform lives.
