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A study released by the American Public Health Association in 2010 suggests that there is an apparent link between excessive messaging, referred to as "hyper-texting" (over 120 text messages a day) and risky behaviors like binge drinking, using drugs, fighting, and promiscuity. The study was conducted at twenty public high schools in the Cleveland area and based on more than 4,200 confidential surveys completed by the high school students of those schools.
The study also revealed that those teens who "hypertext" are more susceptible to peer pressure and also have permissive or absent parents. "If parents are monitoring their children's texting and social networking, they're probably monitoring other activities as well," said Dr. Scott Frank, the study's lead author. If your child sends over 3,600 text messages a month, I recommend that you take cell phone and social media monitoring seriously to eliminate any potential exposure to risky behaviors.
The study also revealed that those teens who "hypertext" are more susceptible to peer pressure and also have permissive or absent parents. "If parents are monitoring their children's texting and social networking, they're probably monitoring other activities as well," said Dr. Scott Frank, the study's lead author. If your child sends over 3,600 text messages a month, I recommend that you take cell phone and social media monitoring seriously to eliminate any potential exposure to risky behaviors.
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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.