The sight of smartphones, tablets
and other electronic devices peppered among the public is not uncommon today. Over
time, experts have discussed how parents should exert control over their
children’s use of these devices. However, as electronic devices progressively
support non-entertainment functions, setting clear boundaries to prevent
overuse becomes more and more difficult. Moreover, noting that we adults are
clearly obsessed with our own gadgets, how can we ask our children to change
their behavior? We need to realize that overusing electronic devices may have
significant effects on brain development, interpersonal relationships and other
aspects of our lives. Following are two potential hazards of electronic
overdependence and suggestions to help parents build healthier lifestyles for
their children.
Brain reaction
Neuroscientists suggest that the
prolonged use of digital devices will overactivate a substance in the brain
mainly used for processing, which helps us think and react faster. Although
this brain activity sounds positive, over-release of the substance can hinder
brain development, lesson feelings of contentment and increase apathy toward
others. More importantly, children may experience difficulty in expressing
their inner feelings, decreasing their abilities to react to and handle
stressful situations.
Hyperactivity
Research and studies have been
conducted as an attempt to correlate overuse of electronic devices and
psychopathology. Although there are no concrete results, we should not underplay
the possible significance of the relationship. Because game applications are so
attractive and tempting, children find them irresistible, so we can easily
imagine why they might lose interest in other activities. They become restless
and impatient when asked to do other things, eager to go back to play their
devices. Their focus at school and attention to the family are also likely to
decrease.
What can I do to help my children...
Preventive measures are always
necessary to help your children develop balanced habits. First and foremost,
minimize your own use of electronic devices in front of your children. This
positive modeling will help your children learn better and faster. Second, set
a fixed time for use of electronic devices for both you and your children. But
don’t just set a time limit. Establish rules to restrict use of gadgets during
important connection moments, such as meal time, after-meal family time and
game time. This planning teaches your children that you value your time with
them and there is no single thing more important than family interactions.
If your children are already
dependent on electronic devices, curbing their habit will take longer. For
critical cases, consult with a mental health professional to work out a
detailed plan to decrease usage. For mild situations, be patient but firm with
your children. Stick with the fixed time you set and plan rewards for when they
comply. Do not discipline them when they fail to keep to their time. Remember,
it takes time to develop a habit; and it also takes time to undo the habit. Your
praise and encouragement both helps to reduce the undesirable habit and build a
more positive relationship with your child.
Author Andy Ying is currently a
third year doctoral student at Azusa Pacific University, major in clinical
psychology. He received his B.A in Social work in Hong Kong, China. He
also received his first M.A. in Hong Kong major in Family Counseling and Family
Education. Later in the U.S., he received his second M.A. in Clinical
Psychology in Azusa Pacific University. He is working on his doctoral
dissertation about Asian American families who has members with Schizophrenia.
No comments:
Post a Comment