Protective Factors Checklist
for Online Safety
Direct Protective Factors
Indirect Protective Factors: Positive Identity Formation
How do parents know when there is cause for concern?
Consider the following 3 risk factors:
What behaviours should I look for?
What Now?
Steps parents can take

What Now?

1. If no concerning behaviour is identified

If your adolescent is not showing signs of concerning behaviours, return to protective factors to read up on what you can incorporate into daily life to increase safety at a prevention level.

2. If risk behaviour is identified

If you are noticing mildly concerning behaviour it is still important to get involved as early intervention is best. Become more visible in your adolescent's online activity. Calmly communicate your concerns and set limits for computer usage which you monitor closely. Just knowing you are aware and monitoring may be enough to change behaviour. Be sure to continue monitoring behaviour indirectly and continue finding time to build your relationship with your adolescent. This is one of the most important protective factors for youth. (Positive Identity Formation)

3. If multiple risk behaviours are identified

If multiple concerning risk behaviours are identified it is important to be vigilant with your follow-up response.

If you feel your adolescent is in immediate danger, you should call the police. If you are unsure and require additional information, you should call Cybertip.ca
at 1-866-658-9022.