The rise of smartphones and other mobile devices in the last few decades has drastically changed the way we communicate and interact with each other. Now, we even have applications, known as personal safety applications, which monitor and share our location with loved ones and notify emergency responders if necessary, along with a number of other safety features.
While these technologies can be incredibly helpful in keeping us safe, it can be difficult to determine where to draw the line when it comes to using these tools for their intended purpose without disrespecting the privacy and independence of others. Namely, if you are a parent with children in their pre-teens or teens, then it may be extremely challenging to find the right balance of using these tools effectively while also respecting boundaries.
Keep reading to learn about some of the various pros, cons, and other considerations you should take into account when utilizing personal safety applications.
Pros of Personal Safety Applications and Location Sharing
We all want to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe, especially when it comes to our children; however, it can feel impossible to do so when you can’t be with them 24/7. Here are a few reasons as to why location sharing within personal safety applications is incredibly beneficial:
- Increased safety – Location sharing can provide peace of mind by allowing family members and friends to easily check in with each other and ensure everyone’s safety. With just one click of a button, you can see exactly where on a map your loved one is and discern if they are where they said they are or where they are supposed to be.
- Improved communication – Location sharing helps people stay in touch with each other by allowing them to easily coordinate meetings and activities. Communication becomes instantaneous without delayed responses.
- Increased convenience – Location sharing reduces the amount of time spent trying to figure out where someone is and where to meet. Instead of having to reach out to someone and wait for them to respond with their location, you can check the app and know instantly.
Cons of Personal Safety Applications and Location Sharing
While these benefits are great and can improve safety tremendously, there are a few things to consider.
First and foremost, simply knowing the location of your loved one does not imply whether or not that person is safe. Therefore, this method is not fool-proof for guaranteeing the safety of your loved ones.
Furthermore, asking another person to share their location 24/7 can be considered an invasion of privacy, resulting in distrust, poor communication, and a negatively impacted relationship. This can make the other person feel as if they have lost their sense of pride, independence, and self-sufficiency.
If you are asking your child to share their location with you, it might make them feel like they are being punished and not to be trusted. A healthy relationship with your child will inevitably involve healthy communication patterns, so you as a parent will not have to constantly worry about your child’s whereabouts without disrespecting their autonomy.
Conclusion
The line between qualming our own worries without disrespecting the privacy of others is thin. To help you make the best decisions for yourself and your family, be sure to consider the factors above carefully.
Michal Hubschmann
CEO