Family dynamics have always had their challenges—just think back to the first teenage cavegirl rolling her eyes and muttering “ugh” at her mum.
Fast forward to today, and the language has evolved into LMAO, TTYL, BFF, OMG, and L8R. And it’s not just kids talking this way. Add Facebook, DS, Wii, iPad, and Twitter to the mix, and the nuclear family is almost unrecognisable—virtually speaking, of course.
Whether we embrace it or not, technology is an integral part of modern life, and for Generations Y and Z, it’s all they’ve ever known. According to Nielsen statistics from 2011, teenagers send and receive an astonishing 3,700 texts a month—that’s roughly 125 texts a day!
While this may seem overwhelming, it’s worth noting that some of those 3,700 texts are likely to be sent to family members. Even the so-called “Evil Technology Giant” has its upsides. Here are a few key benefits:
Coordination of busy schedules: No more worrying about a child being stranded at school or a parent waiting at the airport. A quick text, call, or email ensures everyone stays in the loop.
Safety: In today’s unpredictable world, it’s comforting to know where your family members are and that they can contact you in case of trouble.
A “new connectedness”: Texting has created a unique bridge between parents and teenagers. According to Dr. Gene Beresin, a child psychiatrist at Massachusetts General Hospital, texting provides teens with “optimal distance” from parents, facilitating communication that might not happen otherwise.
However, the influence of technology on family life isn’t all positive. Conflicts over its use have only grown with the rise of the internet and social media, adding to existing distractions like television, mobile phones, and computers.
Read on to explore five significant negative effects of technology on family life—and strategies for managing these challenges. First up, let’s talk about the impact on study habits!
Excessive “screen time”—whether through watching television, browsing the internet, or playing video games—can negatively impact children’s academic performance. Research shows that engaging in these activities releases dopamine, a brain chemical linked to attention and focus, creating a “stimulus surge.” Over time, children can become desensitised, making it harder to concentrate on less stimulating activities like reading books.
One study focusing on boys aged 6 to 9 found a link between video game usage and declining reading skills. These boys didn’t have underlying reading difficulties, but their preference for gaming over reading and writing led to diminished abilities in those areas.
What can parents do, especially with computers now an essential part of education?
Parents are often just as guilty as teenagers when it comes to overusing technology—checking emails during their kids’ activities, texting at meals, or spending phone time while driving. This constant connectivity can leave children feeling jealous or neglected, as they now have to compete with screens for their parents’ attention.
Family dinners, once a time for reconnection, are often interrupted by phones, televisions, or laptops. In some households, dinner becomes a rushed affair, with everyone eager to return to their devices. Shockingly, a survey of children aged 4-6 found that 54% would rather watch television than spend time with their dad.
How can this be addressed?
In summary: Balancing technology’s benefits with its potential drawbacks requires effort and intention. By setting boundaries, encouraging face-to-face interactions, and prioritising outdoor activities, families can navigate the digital age without losing their connection to each other.
5: School Performance
- Limit screen time: The American Academy of Paediatrics recommends one to two hours per day for children over two and none for younger kids.
- Encourage reading: Spend time reading with your children to create a language-rich environment.
- Engage in their learning: Monitor your child’s online homework, providing encouragement and assistance while observing their problem-solving skills.
4: Quality Time
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- Schedule uninterrupted time: Dedicate one-on-one moments with your children.
- Create device-free zones: One family, for example, requires everyone to place their devices in a basket until after dinner.
3: A Less Empathetic Generation
Families are where children traditionally learn essential social skills, such as empathy, communication, and cooperation. However, technology’s omnipresence risks creating a generation that struggles to connect with others face-to-face. Unrestricted gaming, computer use, and television viewing can deprive children of interpersonal experiences necessary for developing “silent fluency”—the ability to interpret nonverbal cues like tone, body language, and facial expressions. Emails and texts lack the emotional depth of in-person or phone conversations, potentially weakening these skills. Psychologist Larry Rosen, an expert on the psychology of social media, acknowledges that platforms like Facebook can help introverted children build confidence in social interactions but insists they are no substitute for real-world engagement. “Real-world empathy is far more critical for feeling socially supported than virtual interactions,” he explains. Encourage your children to spend time with friends in person and, when possible, with you.2: Blurred Boundaries
Gone are the days when home was a sanctuary, free from school, work, or external interruptions. Today, 24/7 connectivity blurs the lines between personal and professional life. Adults, armed with smartphones and laptops, are often expected to be accessible at all hours, while children receive school emails alongside social notifications. Re-establishing boundaries is essential but challenging. Start by setting limits on screen time for everyone in the household—including yourself. Demonstrate that it’s okay to step away from work or social media during family time.1: The “Inside” Generation
Parents now face the challenge of coaxing children to play outdoors, as many prefer to spend free time indoors watching TV, gaming, or browsing the internet. This lack of outdoor activity has led to what author Richard Louv describes as “nature deficit disorder”—a growing disconnect between children and the natural world. A 2004 University of Michigan study found that children play outside two hours less per week than they did two decades ago, opting instead for sedentary activities. The result is not just a cultural shift but a health crisis, with childhood obesity rates tripling since 1980 in the United States. Parents can tackle this by scheduling regular outdoor activities and joining their children for bike rides or walks. By doing so, you not only encourage physical activity but also model healthy behaviour. Sending your kids outside while you stay indoors glued to a screen sends the wrong message.In summary: Balancing technology’s benefits with its potential drawbacks requires effort and intention. By setting boundaries, encouraging face-to-face interactions, and prioritising outdoor activities, families can navigate the digital age without losing their connection to each other.