The computer has become the fundamental tool for learning nowadays. Through this "window", coupled with Internet technology, children and teenagers are also able to access an avalanche of information, participate in the virtual world of computer games, and communicate with friends and strangers without time restriction.

We have conducted two surveys with different focuses in mind based on the computer and Internet usage habits of these young people.

Survey on Primary School Students Computer Usage

In November 2005, Media Education sent out a survey to Primary 4 through 6 students from various districts to understand the way they use their computers. 1,305 questionnaires with useable data have been returned.

The results showed that Internet surfing and computer games were the chief activities of these children. This preoccupation means a decrease in their time for homework, studying, sports or healthy social activities. It also lessens the time they have to interact with their parents. The survey indicated that a close relationship was already built up between a child and the computer as early as Primary 4. This means the need for early intervention through counseling. Furthermore, 45% of the parents were absent during their children's Internet surfing activity while 30% rarely accompanied them. This means that a total of over 70% of the parents allowed their Primary School aged children to surf the Internet freely on their own.

Ms. Wong Kwok Fu, Project Officer of Media Education suggested that parents should prioritize media education in the home, while local districts should supply parents with support services. They should help parents gain basic knowledge about the media, update them with the latest computer knowledge and computer games, and familiarize them with the latest fads in Internet surfing, so they will not lose touch with the younger generation. It is also very important to provide parents with a platform where they can share their experiences and support each other.

Survey on Internet Usage in Relation to Family Intimacy

In order to find out how parents deal with the way their children (Primary 5 to Form 3) use the Internet and how they establish intimacy with them, our Family Networks: Yau Tsim Integrated Family Service Centre sent out 1,906 questionnaires to students from three Primary schools and three Secondary schools in the Yau Tsim District.

The results showed that parents who set time limits on Internet surfing for their children are able to help their children discipline themselves better. Furthermore, the ones who set the time with their children "together" are able to achieve the best compliance and a higher level of intimacy with them.

Ms. Cross Li, Principal Coordinator from Family Networks commented, "The survey highlights five pitfalls for parents that may cause their children to become Internet addicted easily. These include the ignorance of what their children are doing on the Internet, the lack of setting time limits on Internet use, the computer being in the children's room, the lack of knowledge about Internet surfing in general, and the discrepancy of discipline methods between the father and the mother."

In view of this, Family Networks suggested five ways to prevent children from falling into Internet addiction. They include parents setting time limits with children on Internet use, discussing the solutions together, being strict and yet sensitive, being united in discipline methods, and being in touch with the same things their children are interested in so they can communicate on the same level. These are effective ways to overcome possible Internet addiction problems and increase intimacy with one's children.