Clubhouse 101

What is Clubhouse?

Clubhouse is an audio-based social networking app that allows users to join live conversations, listen to discussions, and interact in "rooms" focused on various topics. Launched in 2020, it gained popularity for its unique format, where discussions occur in real-time and are not recorded, fostering a sense of exclusivity and spontaneity. Clubhouse is widely used by professionals, influencers, and casual users alike, but its open format and live nature present risks, especially for younger audiences.

Key Features Parents Should Understand

1. Audio-Only Conversations

  • Clubhouse focuses exclusively on live audio discussions. Users can participate in conversations or just listen in.

2. Rooms and Clubs

  • Users can join rooms on specific topics or follow clubs to explore their interests. Rooms can be public (open to anyone) or private (invite-only).

3. Live and Ephemeral Content

  • Conversations are not recorded by default, meaning there’s no playback. While this fosters candid discussion, it also makes monitoring content more challenging.

4. Follow and Interaction Features

  • Users can follow others, join rooms hosted by those they follow, and raise their hands to speak, allowing interaction in real-time.

5. Minimal Moderation

  • Room hosts moderate conversations, but the lack of robust content moderation tools can lead to exposure to inappropriate or harmful discussions.

6. Age Restrictions

  • Clubhouse requires users to be at least 18 years old, but there’s limited verification to enforce this.

Potential Dangers for Parents to Be Aware Of

1. Inappropriate Content

  • Conversations can cover mature or sensitive topics that may not be suitable for younger listeners.

2. Online Predators

  • The live and open nature of Clubhouse can attract predators seeking to exploit younger users.

3. Cyberbullying and Harassment

  • Verbal abuse or negative interactions may occur during live discussions, particularly in public rooms.

4. Privacy Risks

  • Users share their voices, which could lead to unintended disclosure of personal details, especially if they speak in discussions.

5. Lack of Monitoring

  • The ephemeral nature of conversations makes it difficult for parents to review what their children are exposed to.

6. Addiction to Live Discussions

  • The constant availability of live content can lead to overuse, affecting productivity and mental health.

Practical Parental Guidance

1. Understand Age Restrictions

  • Clubhouse is designed for users 18 and older. If your child is younger, consider waiting until they meet the age requirement.

2. Discuss Online Safety

  • Teach your child:

    • Not to share personal information during discussions.

    • How to recognize and avoid inappropriate rooms.

    • The importance of reporting harmful or abusive behavior.

3. Monitor Usage

  • If your child uses Clubhouse, periodically review their activity, such as which rooms they join or clubs they follow.

4. Set Time Limits

  • Encourage balanced screen time by setting boundaries for how long they can spend on the app each day.

5. Encourage Responsible Interaction

  • Teach your child to:

    • Be respectful in discussions.

    • Leave rooms that feel unsafe or uncomfortable.

    • Avoid interacting with strangers in private rooms.

6. Use Alternatives

  • For younger teens interested in discussions, consider apps with more robust parental controls or moderated content.

Conclusion

Clubhouse offers a unique opportunity to engage in live discussions, share knowledge, and explore interests. However, the unfiltered nature of the platform requires caution, especially for younger users. By staying involved, setting boundaries, and promoting responsible online behavior, parents can help their children safely navigate Clubhouse while fostering healthy digital habits.