Personal Trackers Breach Trust: Psychologist

by Ryan Eamer

May 10, 2007

A developmental psychologist has raised concerns about a new personal tracking system due to be released in Western Australia next week.

The global tracking device is being promoted to employers, the transport industry and family members so they can monitor the movements of employees, goods and children or spouses.

Trackstick Australia Managing Director Bob Chaplin says the product also has the potential to combat the mounting incidence of accidents involving young drivers.

“My suggestion is that parents consider personally observing what their children get up to, when entrusted with the family sedan or other vehicle,” Mr Chaplin said.

The potential benefits for safety are obvious, but so are the concerns being raised by people who worry about potential breaches of privacy.

Developmental psychologist Anna Hynd believes tracking systems could create an unhealthy family dynamic.

“There is a complex process of individuation that happens throughout the teen years, that involves parents gradually relinquishing certain control and monitoring,” Mrs Hynd said today.

“This is a very healthy process,” she said.

“If parents are impeding this process, for instance with a personal tracking system, the result is children that lack life skills to manage on their own.”

Mr Chaplin says while he understands the reservations, the good outcomes will inevitably outweigh the bad.

“Privacy issues are always a concern,” Mr Chaplin said.

“I have four sons however, and I’d rather accept responsibility for ensuring their longevity than abrogating that responsibility to the police and governments,” he said.

Mrs Hynd focused more on the fact that a need for a personal tracking system is a symptom of a relationship that has degenerated.