Exposure to violent and pornographic content
In their daily use of digital technology, your child may be exposed to violent or sexually explicit materials.
In their daily use of digital technology, your child may be exposed to violent or sexually explicit materials.
This type of content may appear:
- in a message (e-mail, instant messaging apps, etc.).
- during an online search.
- on social media.
- when your child is playing a video game or watching a series or a film that is not appropriate to their age.
Teach your child to protect themselves:
- It is important not to click on links sent by strangers by email, messaging or on social media.
- During an online search, inappropriate content may appear even if the subject is unrelated to violent or pornographic content.
- On social media, inappropriate content may appear in their news feed.
Guide your child:
- Take an interest in the people (influencers) and content that your child follows online and on social media.
- Make it clear to your child that they can talk to you at any time, even if they are embarrassed by the content that they see.
- Advise them to start identifying trusted people (teachers, school nurses, etc.) who can help them.
- Where appropriate for their age, install parental controls.
Explain to your child why they should not share this type of content:
- Violent or pornographic content may offend others.
- This type of content may be illegal; possessing or sharing it may be punishable by law.
- In Switzerland, your child is criminally liable for their actions from the age of 10.
You have reasons for concern if your child:
- spends more and more time online or, on the contrary, avoids going online.
- often misses school.
- is getting lower grades.
- often has headaches or stomach aches.
- is sleep deprived.
- becomes aggressive.
- becomes isolated and withdrawn.
If you think that your child has come across violent or pornographic content:
- Listen to them and encourage them to talk.
- Help them understand what they have seen and reassure them:
- Allow them to express their emotions. Your child may feel fear, anxiety, disgust, embarrassment, etc.
- Do not be judgmental.
- Give your child explanations that correspond to their age and language level. The younger they are, the simpler the words should be.
- Give general explanations and allow your child to ask questions themselves. This will allow them to identify exactly their questions and worries.
What does the law say?
Representations of acts of violence, art. 135, section 1 and 2, Swiss Criminal Code
Pornography, art. 197, section 1, Swiss Criminal Code