A mother from North Carolina has sparked a heated debate online after admitting that she regularly snoops through her children’s phones. Laura Muse, a 41-year-old mental health clinician, believes that because she pays for their phones, she has the right to monitor their activity. While some people support her approach for ensuring her children’s safety, others argue that it invades their privacy.

Muse began checking her kids’ phones when they were around 11 years old and continues to do so even now that they are teenagers. Her intention is to prevent them from engaging in inappropriate behavior and to protect them from online predators and scammers. While she trusts her children, she wants to make sure they are making responsible choices.

In the past, Muse has caught her son, Cohen, posting shirtless pictures of himself online. Instead of punishing him, she used it as a teachable moment to discuss the potential consequences of such actions. Muse acknowledges that she is not perfect and doesn’t expect her children to be either. However, she believes it is essential to keep an eye on their online activities.

Muse is not alone in her approach. Other parents have also resorted to snooping through their children’s phones to ensure there is nothing compromising on them. One mother recently discovered that her 15-year-old son was sharing explicit pictures of himself with his girlfriend. The incident left her frustrated and concerned about his safety.

The debate surrounding parental phone monitoring is divided. Some argue that it is necessary to protect children from the dangers of the internet, while others believe it violates their privacy and trust. One user emphasized the importance of privacy, saying, “We deserve some amount of privacy.” The mother defended her decision, asserting that the internet can be dangerous and that she pays her son’s bills, so he should have no expectation of privacy.

While there is no right or wrong answer, this debate highlights the challenges parents face in balancing their children’s safety with their need for independence. Muse’s approach may not be for everyone, but she believes it is necessary for her family. Ultimately, each parent must decide what is best for their own children and navigate the intricacies of this complex issue.