This is to everyone who's even been harassed for their online activities or yanked offline outright -- or who lives in fear that someday it will happen to them. In most cases, our hands are tied...there's nothing we can do but offer our sympathies and root for you to come out on top. Click the category which suits you...
If You're An Adult...
This section will be up soon! :) If you have an idea, a question/problem you'd like us to address, or a personal story to contribute, please send it in.
If You're A Minor...
Some parents worry their kids will meet unsavory elements online. Others fear that you'll neglect school, chores, or "real life" in favor of your virtual pursuits. Some "just don't get the whole online thing." We have a Parents FAQ devoted to addressing these issues and more -- you might want to read it then show it to your parent(s).
In the meantime, here's some ideas for reducing the friction. Not all advice is suited to all families or situations, of course, but it might be a start...
Demonstrate responsibility.
If you can, avoid the circumstances that get you grounded in the first place. For instance, allot time for your homework and make sure they see you doing it. Stay offline the night before a big exam -- well okay, maybe check your mail, but that's it. Get your chores done before you go anywhere near that computer. If you must give up some computer time, be graceful about it and don't try to sneak on, as that will make things worse! In other words, behave. Yeah, it may not be fun, but it's for a very good cause and, except for worst-case scenarios, it'll generally help. It can't hurt!
Introduce the 'rents.
Maybe if they "meet" some of your online friends, they won't be so worried. Show them a few e-mails. Tell them about some of your more mature cohorts. If you can, get them to read one of your stories -- yeah, we know, most parents don't give a hoot about your treasured creations, but you never know, sometimes this works. Better yet, bring them to a chat if your fandom has them. (Just make sure to let everyone know that your parents are there too!)
Suck up like there's no tomorrow!
Well, it probably worked for your parents when they were your age. ;) Just don't beg or whine -- that'll defeat your whole "I'm a responsible near-adult" angle.
Of course, the above suggestions only work in mild-to-moderate cases, in fairly reasonable households. If you're in a more strict, ignorant, or irrational situation, or if you're an adult with more complex and possibly legal complications weighing you down...well...drat it. There's not much advice we can give you, really. And sometimes there's nothing you can do but duck your head and find some good individual advice and hang in there until it blows over. That's what the ribbons are for. Our hearts go out to you, and we just hope that you will be returned safely to us. :(
within your fandom to ask for more help, click here.
If you have an objection or a question that is not
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