This is high time we have a clear concept on this very burning topic!
The human brain isn’t fully developed until about 25 years of age. Adolescents who become dependent on their smartphones could experience negative alterations in brain development.
Decreased brain connectivity in parts of the brain that regulate emotions, decision-making, and impulse-control.
An increased likelihood to consume alcohol and use tobacco.
An increased likelihood to have poor dietary habits.
Increased levels of social loneliness.
TEEN MOBILE ADDICTION: THE SOURCE POINT
Results of a 2016 Common Sense Media Report (USA) found that 50 percent of teens “feel addicted” to mobile the need to immediately answer-to-texts, devices. 59 percent of parents surveyed believe that kids are addicted to their devices. 72 percent of teens and 48 percent of parents accepted their dependency to social - networking messages, and other notifications.
A 2018 Pew Research Report (USA) revealed 95 percent of teens have access to a smartphone.
Symptoms of Cell Phone Abuse –
Cell phone abuse is a worldwide epidemic which is now affecting millions of adolescents.
Does your teen repeat any of the following behaviors over and over again? They could be an indicator of cell phone abuse
Texting with friends and checking for incoming texts
Listening to music and watching videos using headphones
Checking email and social media accounts
Extreme reactions when separated from their device
Worrying about cell phone battery life and access to electrical power
Playing single-player video games and interactive multiplayer games
Switching between multiple devices and programs (social networking, texting, gaming, etc.)
As parents are you concerned about your child’s issue of mobile addiction? Are you on a hunt for better relief?
So here you can certainly gain better results through Socio Emotional Learning. Often socio-emotional problems are also described to be related to well-being and school engagement.
Moreover, it can be summed up that emotional problems and reduced social support predict problematic use of new technologies, such as a smartphone, that can, in turn, increase these problems. Hence, socio emotional learning helps young minds gain self-awareness, develop empathy, social awareness, team building and many more. This could be beneficial for your child to outgrow the addiction.
As parents, if you find your child is suffering from this grave issue do not hesitate to reach us at Manoshala.
By
Ananda Valli Menon.
Head, MINDQ, ManoShala
Reviewed by
Bhavya, Counselling Psychologist, ManoShala