Have you ever observed a teenager or young adult having a meltdown over a seemingly trivial incident ?
It’s not their fault. It’s yours !
Recent research has overwhelmingly determined that prolonged exposure to electronic media can have detrimental effects on behaviour, executive functioning and impulse control. One study saw a staggering 52% increase in major depressive episodes among adolescents aged 12-17 between the years 2005-2017. The study attributed this increase to the rise in electronic communication and digital media usage (Twenge et al., 2019).
The effect on the prefrontal cortex is dramatic and impacts several major developmental areas which mimicked brain injury.
- Brain Changes: Watching a lot of screens can change the brain’s structure. A study found that people with mild brain injuries had thicker prefrontal cortices, which impacted their thinking and recovery (Dall’Acqua et al., 2017).
- Brain Plasticity: New experiences can change brain structure. For example, memory training increased the thickness of the prefrontal cortex, showing that this area is very adaptable (Metzler-Baddeley et al., 2016).
- Teen Brain Development: The prefrontal cortex changes a lot during the teen years, which is crucial for developing thinking and decision-making skills (Tamnes et al., 2017).
- Behavioral Symptoms: Too much screen time can cause brain changes similar to those seen in ADHD and autism. Kids with heavy alcohol exposure before birth showed thicker prefrontal cortexes and had cognitive problems (Sowell et al., 2008).
Is this all doom and gloom ? Can we do anything ?
Duh Yeah !
Minimize the time spent on smartphones and set hard limits on media usage.
Yes your kids will hate you but that will pass.
The beneficial results far outweigh the tantrums.
- Quick Behavior Changes: Digital detoxing can lead to quick improvements in behaviour. When people stop using screens, they often feel less stressed and more focused almost immediately. A study found that even a short digital detox could reduce stress and improve sleep (Anrijs et al., 2018).
- Mental Health Improvements: Using digital detox apps helps manage screen time, reducing negative effects like anxiety and depression. One study showed that digital detox apps help users cut down on social media use and improve their mental health (Schmuck, 2020).
- Benefits of Taking Breaks: People who take breaks from screens report feeling more connected to real life and having better social interactions. Digital detoxing can help restore balance and improve overall happiness (Varma, 2018).
- Long-Term Changes: Consistent digital detoxing can lead to long-term improvements in behavior and health. A systematic review found that taking regular breaks from screens can improve well-being and social relationships (Radtke et al., 2021).
The evidence underscores the benefits of mindful social media use among adolescents, emphasizing how it can enhance mental well-being. By thoughtfully managing and monitoring their social media engagement, young people can enjoy a positive and enriching online experience while minimizing potential drawbacks.