A local school resource officer says behavioral problems linked to social media are more prevalent than ever.

Clinton Police Officer Mike Bennett is the school resource officer for Clinton schools. He indicates while social media brought problems before the pandemic it is even more relevant, as virtually every child he suspects has some online presence.

Officer Bennett contends that good parenting means being aware of which social media platforms your child is using. He says the possibility of catfishing is a concern with children using social media.

Problems with social media are not just two-sided problems. Bennett says teachers are seeing friends taking sides which can be very disruptive to the learning process.

Officer Bennett says the most popular apps include TikTok, Snapchat, and WhatsApp. He encourages parents to do a simple search online if they are unfamiliar with what their child is using.

Officer Bennett's message to students using social media is to keep the Golden Rule in mind at all times. Don't say something to someone that you wouldn't tell them in person, and don't post anything you wouldn't want your mother to see.