INTRODUCTION:
Black adolescents in North America are disproportionately affected by mental health issues. Additionally, many black parents, guardians, and caregivers often lack access to reliable information that can guide their parenting practices. Furthermore, a significant number of black parents, guardians, and caregivers in Canada are immigrants or newcomers, which can create tensions between their cultural backgrounds and the Canadian culture in which their adolescents are growing up. In addition, the rapidly evolving landscape of social media is another area that presents challenges, as many black parents, guardians, and caregivers find it unfamiliar and daunting. Funded by the Ontario Trillium Foundation, the authors aim to involve Black parents, guardians, and caregivers in a participatory action research project to explore strategies to guide the safety of their adolescents online in a culturally sensitive manner.

METHODS:
Using participatory action research methodology with focus groups, this study aims to explore the strategies used by black parents, guardians, and caregivers to help their adolescents navigate the online world and social media safely. The overarching goal is to foster family cohesion and integrity among black families by developing effective strategies to help adolescents use online and social media platforms safely.

RESULTS:
The findings from this research have the potential to address the existing disparities in studies conducted by black individuals, benefiting black communities in Canada and across North America. The findings will also bridge a gap in existing empirical studies exploring strategies used by parents, guardians, and caregivers to keep adolescents safe online and on social media platforms.

CONCLUSIONS:
It is imperative to research strategies that parents, guardians, and caregivers use to keep adolescents safe as they navigate the online and social media world. This is crucial to prevent adverse outcomes such as poor mental health and diminished academic performance.