3-Part Series of A Pediatrician's Perspective: Part 1: Ick Pics: What to Do When Inappropriate Content Strikes

“We need to be able to have open conversations so they feel comfortable coming to us when they’re in a bad or an uncomfortable situation,” says returning guest Dr. Lisa Klein, a board-certified pediatrician specializing in adolescent medicine and co-founder of Turning Teen. Andrea Hecht and Dr. Klein kick off their three-part series, "A Pediatrician’s Perspective” which aims to empower parents to engage in crucial conversations with their teens. This episode—part one of the series—dives into the sensitive but important topic of unsolicited or inappropriate images, referred to as “ick pics,” that teens could come across online.

 

Dr. Klein emphasizes how important it is to have these conversations about consent and internet safety earlier than most parents would think. Having these talks with parents before issues emerge gives teenagers the confidence that they may approach them without worrying about being judged or punished. How can we foster this kind of open communication that empowers teens in today’s complex digital landscape? Andrea and Dr. Klein encourage maintaining calm, approachable communication that helps teens make better choices. Tune in to get practical tips for setting boundaries, building trust, and encouraging teens to speak up when they encounter something inappropriate online.

 

Quotes

• “‘Ick pic’ is a picture of naked people, private parts, right? Anything inappropriate. And it’s not necessarily that you asked for it. A lot of times it’s accidental exposure or unsolicited receiving of it. And in a perfect world, we would talk about it with our kids before any of it happens, so we know what to do… My main messages are: shame-free, don’t embarrass them, don’t punish them. We need to be able to have open conversations so they feel comfortable coming to us when they’re in a bad or an uncomfortable situation.” (04:19 | Dr. Lisa Klein)
• “I think it’s really important that we take a deep breath. We need to understand that this is an uncomfortable conversation, and we need to be prepared. We must make sure not to shame anybody because that immediately shuts down the line of communication.” (06:30 | Andrea Hecht) 
• “We need to be teaching our kids that private parts are private.” (08:39 | Dr. Lisa Klein) 
• “We have to start talking to our kids early and often about every topic, including the ones that make us uncomfortable, like inappropriate pictures and pornography—what we see online, how to prevent it, and how to deal with it when it happens. So, stay calm, stay shame-free, and try to avoid embarrassment. Again, parents, use your resources. There are resources for all these things now available at your fingertips.” (15:52 | Dr. Lisa Klein)

 

Links

Connect with Dr. Lisa Klein:

Website: https://www.turningteen.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/turningteen

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/turningteen

 

Additional resources to learn more about digital safety: https://www.protectyoungeyes.com

 

Connect with your host, Andrea Hecht:

Connect with Andrea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fullyinformedlifecoaching

 

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