by Susan J. Campbell

Created on: December 30, 2008

The introduction of cameras on cellular phones begged the question do we really need to take pictures that often? Sure, the feature eliminates the need to carry an additional device, but you sacrifice good quality in exchange for convenience. It also serves as a great tool for communication as a picture can be captured and sent on to many all in the same moment.

While the benefits to the camera feature can be numerous, there is also a dark side. In the hands of youth bent on practical jokes or merely embarrassing a peer, the camera feature can be used for malice and even illegal acts. Junior high and high school administrators are finding that cell phone cameras are being used to capture inappropriate photos, often without the subject's permission.

The problem that arises in such a situation is two-fold: sexual harassment charges can be filed against the student and the school; the owner of the phone containing the inappropriate pictures can be charged with possession of child pornography. While both consequences may seem extreme, the reality is that the person taking the pictures is breaking the law.

Unfortunately, these actions are often done in attempts to be funny or cool among classmates. Students are often given the privilege of a cell phone without being privy to the conversation of responsibility and consequences. Parents may explode over a $400 line item on the phone bill due to excessive text messages, but unless they monitor the phone itself, how it is used and what is on it their child could be using the phone for actions beyond its original intent.

The social impact on the subject of the photo can be significant, especially if the photo is sent or passed around the school. What should be of greater concern is the impact it can ultimately have on the owner of the phone. If caught with inappropriate pictures of another teen, a student will be charged with possession of child pornography. In many states, that means the student will serve time and be labeled a sex offender for life.

When parents hand their child a cell phone that sports the camera feature, they have a duty to that child and to the community to educate themselves on the risks associated with cell phone camera use and teach their child what is acceptable and what can have lifelong consequences. Without this critical step in the process, the student and his or her peers are at risk.

Learn more about this author, Susan J. Campbell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.