The effect of digital parents on children's internet addiction: A study on children aged 9-12

Today, the internet and other technological tools are widely used in various aspects of life, ranging from communication and entertainment to information gathering and education. While these technologies provide numerous benefits, they also present significant risks, especially for children. Children are vulnerable to various dangers such as cyberbullying, violent content, sexual exploitation, and malicious software. Additionally, the instant gratification provided by the internet and digital games increases the risk of developing addiction. Children aged 9-12 are particularly vulnerable to online risks due to their high interest in technology and curiosity towards digital content. This increased exposure raises concerns among parents. This study aims to examine the internet addiction and digital behaviors of children aged 9-12 within the context of digital parenting attitudes. The research seeks to identify the risks children encounter in the digital world and analyze the effectiveness of parents' guidance roles in reducing these risks. The study employed a survey method conducted through Google Forms, and the collected data were analyzed using basic statistical methods. These methods allowed for reaching a wide parent population and obtaining data to address the research questions. The findings of the research reveal that the approach of digital parenting is not merely about restricting children's internet use, but rather a guiding process that encourages them to establish a conscious and safe relationship with technology. It is emphasized that parents play a crucial role in enhancing their children's media literacy, enabling them to develop digital skills in a secure manner and protect them from online risks. Instead of banning technology, it is observed that when parents introduce it to their children in a balanced and conscious way, it significantly contributes to the establishment of a healthy relationship between children and the digital world.