Numbers Tell The Story
The internet has transformed how children learn, connect, and entertain themselves—but with these benefits come serious risks. Today’s youth are growing up in an always-online world, where social media, gaming, and instant messaging expose them to dangers that parents and caregivers may not always see.
The statistics in this section shine a light on the realities of the digital world. They are not meant to scare, but to inform and empower families, educators, and caregivers. When we understand the risks, we can take action. From setting up parental controls to having open conversations with kids, knowledge is the first step toward protection.
Take a look at the numbers—and let’s work together to make the internet a safer place for the next generation.
All information from the Bark 2023 Annual Report and Enough.org.
| Self-harm/suicide: 33% of tweens/57% of teens were involved in a self-harm/suicidal situation | Bullying: 67% of tweens/76% of teens experienced bullying as a bully, victim, or witness. |
| Sexual content: 58% of tweens/75% of teens encountered nudity or content of a sexual nature | Depression: 26% of tweens/38% of teens engaged in conversations about depression |
| Anxiety: 19% of tweens/36% of teens used language or were exposed to language about anxiety | Predators: 8% of tweens/10% of teens encountered predatory behaviors from someone online |
| Drugs/alcohol: 58% of tweens/77% of teens engaged in conversations surrounding drugs/alcohol | Violence: 68% of tweens/82% of teens expressed or experienced violent subject matter/thoughts |
Human trafficking is the second most profitable illegal industry in the United States (UNICEF).
The following statistics are courtesy of ParentsTogether, a nonprofit organization providing independent reporting and commentary on issues that affect kids and families.
- 1 in 3 children are first exposed to social media at age 5 or younger.
- 1 in 3 are expected to have an unwelcome sexual experience online before they turn 18.
- Younger social media exposure correlates with more sexual harm online and peaks for kids who start using social media at 11-12 - the age around which most American children get their first smartphone.
- 43% of kids exposed to inappropriate sexual content online were under 13.
- Kids with disabilities, special needs, or who identify as LGBTQ+ are 2-4x more likely to send explicit images of themselves than their peers.
The most chilling fact about these statistics is that they only reflect the reported numbers. Human trafficking lives in the shadows, meaning it is impossible to ever know how many cases are happening without being reported.
40% of kids in grades 4-8 reported they connected or chatted with a stranger online. Of those 40%
- 53% revealed their phone #
- 21% spoke with the stranger on the phone
- 15% tried to meet the stranger
- 11% met the stranger
(Center for Cyber Safety and Education)