Parents' Digital Literacy Strategies in Preventing Promiscuity of Alpha Generation in the Digital Era
Abstract
Introduction: The rapid integration of digital technologies into children’s everyday lives has created new opportunities as well as risks, including exposure to inappropriate sexual content, online grooming, and harmful interactions. Parental digital literacy is therefore increasingly important for supporting children’s safety in digital environments.
Purposes of the Research: This study examines parental digital literacy strategies for addressing online risks among Generation Alpha and analyses the extent to which Indonesia’s child-protection framework supports parental and family-level digital safety practices.
Methods of the Research: This socio-legal study combines normative legal analysis with empirical research conducted in Cirebon City, Indonesia. Primary data were collected through structured interviews with 20 key informants and questionnaires involving 100 parents of children aged 6–14 years, selected through purposive sampling. The data were analysed using qualitative descriptive analysis and descriptive statistics, supported by source and method triangulation.
Results Main Findings of the Research: The findings indicate substantial disparities in parental digital literacy, particularly in digital safety. Five strategies were identified: technical mediation, active mediation, restrictive mediation, digital modelling, and co-digital literacy. The findings further suggest that parental practices combining technical safeguards with open communication and adaptive monitoring provide a more comprehensive approach to managing children’s online risks. The legal analysis indicates gaps between existing child-protection mandates and the preventive responsibilities of digital platforms. Conclusion: Effective child protection in digital environments requires an integrated approach combining parental digital literacy, child-sensitive communication, adaptive supervision, and stronger institutional responsibilities for digital platforms.
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