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ALBANY, GA --
Facebook announced that it is testing various ways to allow children under 13 to have an account, like linking it to their parents page so all friend requests have to be okayed first, but the public is still weary of what this may mean for kids.

"That's like saying open Pandora's box to 13-year-olds and what are your concerns," said Andy Martin, a licensed counselor at Insight Psychotherapy.

"It's just opening a door that doesn't have to be opened," said mother of one, Olivia Oakes.

Behind that door, people see the possibility of bullying and self esteem issues developing at a pivotal time in a child's life, but some aren't surprised that technology is targeting kids at a younger age.

"It's kind of expected that a company like Facebook would pretty much allow kids of that age to be exposed to the content that's posted on the website. However, I do believe there should be some time of hindrance," said Facebook user, Desmond Watson.

"Is it okay for a 13-year-old to be able to connect socially? Sure. But Facebook is a lot more than just socially connecting," said Martin.

You can go on your page and control your pictures, what you post on other friend's walls and your information, but people are worried that kids that age don't know internet etiquette and right from wrong.

"They don't know better and they're naive. They don't think about it. It doesn't happen to them kind of deal," said Oakes.

But it can happen and the statistics of harmful situations - like online predators - are daunting.

"One out of five children that are online currently will be approached by a sex offender or a sexual predator and that's as it stands now,” said Amy Boney, Regional Director of the Lily Pad, a non-profit children’s advocacy organization.

Which raises the question: will this only make it worse?

"There's no doubt about the fact that people that would target 13-year-olds certainly would use Facebook to do it," said Martin.

Facebook argues that kids already use the site - illegally - so they have no choice but to allow a presence with the right amount of control.

The change is still in testing mode but don't be surprised if you receive a friend request from your niece or nephew in the near future.