84
Parent Corner
ENTERTAINMENT TECHNOLOGY AND ITS THREATS ON YOUNG MINDS BY DR SALIHA AFRIDI, CLINICAL PSYCHOLOGIST AND MANAGING DIRECTOR OF THE LIGHTHOUSE ARABIA
M
any parents and educators feel helpless when thinking about how to manage their children’s technology use. It is unrealistic to think that children will not be exposed to digital devices in today’s world, especially since Covid. However, one thing that might make it easier for them is to consider the uses of the devices and limit the usage of entertainment technology and allow for educational technology. Let’s face it, most of us are not worried about our children spending hours on their devices doing multiplications. We are mostly concerned about their attention spans, their use of
social media, and their addictive behaviours to gaming. Studies have found that both technology and social media platforms can leave children, and adults, with feelings of anxiety, depression, disturbed sleep patterns, the potential for cyberbullying, and distorted body image. It is important, if not essential, for parents to consider the dangers of excessive use of entertainment technology and educate themselves and their children on how to best use their smart devices so that they are not being overly exposed to unhealthy messages while maintaining a sense of balance and mental well-being.
