Thanks to the internet and smart devices, young people have never been more connected. Then why do they feel so isolated?
Our teens and children, smartphones firmly clutched in hands, have the world at their busily scrolling fingertips. School, hobbies, friendships … It’s all taking place on a screen near them. But it’s not all Wi-Fi and rainbows for Generation Online.
Brains under construction
Young brains are works in progress, especially the bits in charge of regulating emotions, making decisions and controlling impulses. That makes it harder for them to resist the dopamine hits triggered by online interaction. What’s more, everything is designed to keep them plugged in.
A perfect storm
Teens are at a disadvantage when it comes to cyberspace. They are less likely to consider whether they should do something for views (eat a chilli whole, really?) and they can’t fully grasp that what they put online stays online. Plus, with less life experience, telling true from false is becoming more challenging, especially with the rise of AI fakery. Add hormones to the mix and it’s giving crisis.
The result is unique mental challenges we can’t simply scroll past.
The downsides of being online
Being online excessively, especially unsupervised, takes its toll:
- It keeps teens from making meaningful connections.
- The screen is a barrier to fully experiencing life and developing real-world skills.
- The constant comparisons encouraged by social media chip away at self-esteem.
- Cyberbullying is rampant – sometimes with devastating results.
Warning signs
A certain amount of sulking, sighing and scrolling is normal teen behaviour, but red flags should wave if there are major, consistent changes, especially lasting two or more weeks.
Ask yourself if your child is:
- Obsessively checking devices – and freaking out if they can’t use them
- Spending more and more time on their own
- Putting screen time ahead of meals, sleep and hobbies
- Struggling to concentrate and doing worse at school
Extreme screen time is linked with anxiety, depression, behavioural issues, eating disorders and sleep troubles, as well as poor social skills and speech delays.
Creating healthy tech-vironments
Used wisely, online platforms can support learning, foster friendships and provide creative outlets. The good news: you don’t need to “lose” the WiFi password permanently. The aim is balance.
- Have screen-fee zones. No phones at the table or in bedrooms. This way you can enjoy food, sleep and each other’s company.
- Be the best influencer. You’ll never convince them to put down devices if you’re doomscrolling through dinner.
- Use tech wisely. Set screen limits and use parental controls – not to punish, but to guide.
- Talk about it. Just as you’d ask about school or friends, chat about their online interests. Keep it light and judgement-free.
- Log off. Encourage real-life fun with hobbies they’d enjoy, like dancing or sport. Bonus if you can do them together.
Reference
- Adolescent mental health and the digital world (Rachana Desai, Wits University)
