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A recent study from the United States reveals that excessive use of technology and social media can hinder children’s ability to form meaningful connections, raising concerns among parents and educators alike. Conducted by The Kids Mental Health Foundation in partnership with Nationwide Children’s Hospital, the survey gathered insights from 1,146 parents, uncovering the potential negative impacts of tech-heavy environments on young students.
The findings underscore widespread parental concerns, with half of the respondents worried about their children’s overuse of technology. Other significant concerns included bullying, cited by 30% of parents, and the social impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which was a worry for 22% of those surveyed. The study further highlighted the struggles of children in fitting into school environments, with 19% of parents reporting that differences in race, ethnicity, culture, socioeconomic status, or gender identity posed challenges for their children in forming friendships.
“Connections foster a sense of belonging, which is essential for academic success and overall well-being,” stated Dr. Ariana Hoet, the executive clinical director of The Kids Mental Health Foundation and a pediatric psychologist at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. Dr. Hoet emphasized the dual nature of technology, noting that while it offers certain benefits, it can also be detrimental if not monitored carefully.
Parents are encouraged to be vigilant for warning signs that their child’s technology use might be negatively affecting their social interactions. Dr. Hoet identified several indicators, such as losing track of time, preoccupation with devices, isolation from real-world activities, irritability, physical health issues, and changes in school performance or offline social interactions. Recognizing these signs can help parents determine whether their child’s screen time is interfering with their ability to build meaningful relationships.
The survey also illuminated other challenges related to classroom dynamics. Parents expressed concerns about their children’s ability to fit in (14%), make new friends (17%), avoid bullying or exclusion (13%), and form friendships through sports and extracurricular activities (5%). These issues are particularly acute for children from marginalized or underrepresented groups, who may face additional barriers to feeling a sense of belonging.
Dr. Hoet suggested several strategies for parents to support their children in overcoming these challenges. She recommended finding mentors to model positive behavior, seeking out environments where the child can feel accepted, and regularly engaging in conversations about their social connections and online experiences. “Teachers and parents can play a significant role in fostering a sense of belonging,” Dr. Hoet noted. However, she acknowledged that this may be more challenging for immigrant parents who might struggle to navigate the school system and culture.
The study underscores the importance of balance in children’s lives, particularly when it comes to their use of technology and social media. While these tools can offer educational benefits, they should be used in moderation to ensure that children can develop the real-world social skills essential for their long-term success and well-being.
