Cell phones, social media and FOMO

https://www.thetimes.co.uk/article/smart-kids-dont-take-phones-to-bed-8t7mvzstk

It is not mentioned in the article, but I think it is important to add several points:

It is not the cell phone or social media that causes these problems, but the way teenagers (are often allowed by their parents to) use the device and apps.

Whether some of the underlying problems (such as teenagers’ perception of popularity, warped self-identity and self-esteem) are related to the new technology or not, the potential negative consequences are the same.

Few however will deny that the new technology makes these issues more challenging; endlessly bombarding teenagers with uncensored views.  It leaves teenagers to their own devices to make sense of the input and to judge the reliability of the information with limited life experience and cognitive skills, UNLESS parents GUIDE, RESTRICT / MONITOR and EDUCATE.

Parents need to EDUCATE teenagers on the underlying problems/issues mentioned earlier, whether related or unrelated to cell phones & social media. Parents also need to educate and set the example for their children on cell phone & social media etiquette. Highlighting and setting the example, showing the importance of face to face communication, interaction and relationships.

Because of the limited life experience, cognitive skills and judgement of teenagers, and the huge pressure to conform, parents need to RESTRICT and/or MONITOR the social media use of their adolescent child. In terms of content, and time spent on social media.

Depending on the teenager’s unique nature, age, level of self-discipline and responsibility shown, parents can GUIDE more and RESTRICT less, resulting in more independence.