3. The relationship makes you feel really special
If someone you’ve never met in person starts to make you feel special, that’s not necessarily a bad thing.
The dynamic can be harmful, however, when feeling adored comes at a price, like engaging in sexually explicit conversations.
Similarly, says Carnes, a young person might develop expectations that don’t materialize offline and ultimately feel betrayed or used.
An adult interacting online with a minor may make the relationship seem important, but is in fact pursuing multiple connections at once.
