Is Tech Use Increasing Children's Dysregulation?
Apr 04, 2024
In today's fast-paced digital age, smartphones and social media platforms have become an integral part of our daily lives, offering unprecedented connectivity and access to information. But what’s the impact on children’s mental health and emotional regulation? Ever since Jean Twenge's 2017 article "Have Smartphones Destroyed a Generation?" the debate has raged.
Our devices help us learn, create and engage socially. They also come with unique challenges. Spending long hours glued to screens may lead to decreased physical activity, disrupted sleep patterns, and feelings of isolation. The constant barrage of notifications and online interactions can create a sense of overwhelm, making it difficult for children to regulate their emotions effectively.
Children today are growing up in a vastly different world than previous generations. Navigating the complexities of digital technology can be challenging for both them and the adults around them. There are no standards, and the “data” is often wildly conflicting. Parents are left to make the call.
It reminds me of smoking in the 60s. Everybody smoked. Parents smoked in cars with kids in the backseat (unbuckled), everyone smoked at work, and doctors even smoked while seeing patients. It was normal. That has changed pretty dramatically in just a generation.
I imagine it will be the same when it comes to these technologies in the future. There won’t be much debate about at what age is too young and how much is healthy to consume. Until then, it’s up to us to help kids explore diverse avenues of self-regulation and social interaction.
Rather than simply resigning ourselves to the convenience of screens, we can embrace the curiosity and adaptability inherent in childhood by fostering an environment that encourages exploration and learning. By introducing children to a variety of activities and teaching them coping mechanisms to navigate discomfort, we empower them to develop resilience and emotional intelligence.
Through positive reinforcement and gentle guidance, we can help children discover the joy of trying new things, engaging with others, and even embracing moments of boredom as opportunities for creativity and self-discovery.
