The “confession” of the internet. Google as a source of knowledge about digital threats to child development

Every year, children are born into an increasingly mediated world, and the internet has become ubiquitous and significantly impacts their upbringing. However, this apparent “digital freedom” carries a number of risks, especially in the mental and emotional health of the youngest users. This article focuses on the role of the internet as a key source of information about the risks associated with children’s digital presence, using the Google search engine as an example. The analysis focuses primarily on threats such as depression and anxiety, netaholism, and cyberbullying—resulting from the opportunities the internet offers to young children.