Dana is mom to a son who, when he was 14, experienced a rapid decline in his mental well-being. A few months later, she came to understand that he had become deeply influenced by predatory online networks that encourage vulnerable people, especially minors, to harm themselves and others. NPR is not using Dana’s full name or revealing her identity because it remains unclear whether those who targeted her son continue their activities. Joanna Kulesza for NPR
Joanna Kulesza for NPR
The beginning of ninth grade was already shaping up to be a bumpy transition for then-14-year-old Elliott. His longtime friend