Subscribe now!
Write a short description about your product/offer. Keep it short, but provide the essential information they need to be able to make sense of what's coming.
Technology is a wonderful thing and it has made our lives so much easier in so many ways.
Most children or teens do not even begin to appreciate the advanced technology they get to enjoy, as opposed to what was available to their grandparents or great-grandparents.
With all the new technology though, a question is recurring among adults and school professionals: are children addicted to technology?
If you were to visit one high school, you would probably find that 95% of teens have cell phones on them.
The same percentage probably has a computer at home with internet access. These things are not so bad in and of themselves, but the time spent using these gadgets can become ultra time consuming and interfere with daily living.
In an era before cell phones and the internet, my childhood was characterized by genuine connections and outdoor exploration.
Without digital distractions, we gathered at parks and playgrounds, engaging in imaginative play and forging strong bonds. Nature became our playground, and we spent weekends biking and venturing into forests and streams.
Communication took time and effort, relying on letters and landline phones, which (I think) heightened the anticipation of connection. We also seemed to thrive on independence, solving problems without instant internet answers, and seeking knowledge mainly through books and encyclopedias.
I can’t even imagine what my childhood and teen years would have been like if we had the technology available today.
If you’re a parent, you probably do your best to make sure your children do not become addicted to technology.
However, cell phone addiction is more common than many people think.
A survey conducted by Common Sense Media revealed that approximately half of teenagers, according to the poll's findings, consider themselves addicted to their mobile devices.
The survey involved 1,240 interviews with both parents and their children, aged 12 to 18. Interestingly, 59% of parents expressed their belief that their teenagers were addicted to their devices.
Developmental pediatrician Mark Bertin M.D. states in his article, Teen Phone Use 101, that,
“Smartphones are based on algorithms that drive usage, similar in part to how slot machines work. We get hooked on a moment of engagement, it passes, and then we crave more.”
He points out that technology is not necessarily good or bad, but what’s more important is how one chooses to use it.
Bertin adds,
“Technology is only a tool, much like driving a car. Most teens require adult guidance until they show themselves ready around driving… similar to their use of smartphones and other devices.”
If you’re not sure what signs and behaviors indicate mobile phone addiction, here are some things to look out for:
The reality is that teens can and do get addicted to cell phones, as well as adults. With phones serving as constant companions, adults often find themselves unconsciously reaching for their devices, entranced by the allure of social media, games, and digital distractions.
Today, a record number of teens are texting and driving, which is very dangerous.
Hundreds of accidents per year occur due directly to texting and driving. In fact, a study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety, teen drivers were found to be approximately four times more likely to be involved in a crash when using a cell phone, including texting, compared to those who did not engage in distracted driving.
Many innocent people lose their lives as well because someone could not wait to read or send a text.
If you are in the habit of texting and driving, please stop! Be responsible behind the wheel and be a good example.
The same holds true for social media. Children and teens can become addicted to the world of their friends on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter, etc. and spend hour after hour each day checking statuses, chatting, posting photos, sending messages, and so on.
In a 2018 survey conducted by Pew Research Center, it was found that 45% of teenagers reported being online either "almost constantly" or "several times a day," participating in a wide range of online activities, including social media.
Spending so much time on social media or becoming addicted to it can pose some problems, such as:
It's important to find a balance in social media use, communicate openly, and promote responsible online behavior to mitigate these potential issues.
Video games have become an irresistible part of a child’s life, captivating more and more adolescents with their immersive and addictive nature.
With a wide range of gaming options available on consoles, PCs, and mobile devices, it's no surprise that many youths find themselves deeply engrossed in virtual worlds.
However, this obsession can raise concerns about its impact on their well-being.
According to an article entitled, The Health Effects Of Too Much Gaming at Harvard Health Publishing, excessive gaming can lead to reduced social interactions, disrupted sleep patterns, and lower academic performance.
It's important for parents and society to find a balance, encouraging the positive aspects of gaming while ensuring that it doesn't overshadow real-life experiences and responsibilities.
Technology addiction is when someone becomes dependent on some type of technology, such as:
As a parent, if you desire to bring up the topic of technology addiction with your child, approach the conversation with empathy, understanding, and a desire to help.
Be calm and curious as you open the conversation.
Let them know you’re concerned about their technology use lately and want to check in with them.
Use “I” statements, rather than “you”.
For example, you could say something like, "I've noticed that you've been spending a lot of time on your phone, and I'm concerned about how this may be affecting you."
You can also educate your child about the risks and dangers of addiction. Explain that addiction is a real concern and that it can affect their mental health, school performance, relationships, and overall well-being.
Together, you can agree on boundaries regarding screen time, and feel good about helping them not let technology control their life.
Help them understand that technology is helpful, but it should not dictate their lives and take up all of their time.
For more information, check out the Center for Internet and Technology Addiction (CITA): A comprehensive resource center that addresses internet and technology addiction. You can find plenty of education there, as well as tools and treatment options.
LATEST
February 4, 2024
February 1, 2024
January 28, 2024
CATEGORIES
wake up to dailymotivation!
Get Motivational Quotes, Affirmations, and insightful content delivered to your inbox every morning!
Session expired
Please log in again. The login page will open in a new tab. After logging in you can close it and return to this page.