Teens Surfing The Net: How Do They Learn To Protect Their Privacy?

Abstract

This study invokes the consumer socialization process to investigate how teens develop knowledge of ‘privacy concern’ as it relates to protecting their privacy when using the Internet. The data in this study show a correlation between teens that are raised in homes where parents practice concept-oriented family communication and the development of privacy concern. The data also show a correlation between parental co-viewing of the Internet and the development of privacy concern. Finally, the date link peer communication with the development of privacy concern. Overall the date appear to show that discussion with parents and friends about Internet use is key to the development of adopting concern for protecting teens privacy when they use the Internet.