Technology has been developed at an alarming rate in recent years.

It has brought about countless benefits to our daily lives, such as staying connected with loved ones, accessing information and entertainment quickly and easily, and even being able to work remotely. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows when it comes to technology. There is a darker side to it that we can’t simply ignore. One major concern that we should be paying more attention to is how technology isolates today’s teenagers.

What’s causing the isolation?

Today’s teenagers are spending more and more time on their smartphones, laptops, and other tech gadgets. A Pew Research Center study found that more than 92% of teenagers report going online every day.

While the internet has brought tremendous benefits to the modern world, it has also created social isolation, particularly among the young adult population.

Many argue that social media is the main culprit for causing this sense of isolation. Teens today are spending a huge amount of time on various social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

They are constantly checking their profiles and notifications, responding to direct messages, and posting pictures to get likes and attention from their friends. This can create a toxic environment for teens where they are relentlessly pursuing validation from others, which can lead to a negative self-image and depression.

What are some of the consequences?

The social isolation that technology creates can have serious negative impacts on the mental health of teenagers. It can also limit their social skills and prevent them from developing valuable personal relationships.

These can result in the following consequences:.

Mental Health Issue

Studies show that adolescents who spend too much time on electronic devices are at a higher risk of developing mental health issues like anxiety and depression.

This is due to the fact that the need for constant validation, the fear of missing out, and stress associated with the use of these devices can be overwhelming to a teenager. All of these factors can negatively affect their mental well-being in the long run.

Poor Communication Skills

Another significant impact of isolation caused by technology on today’s teenagers is that their communication skills are inadequately developed.

Since they are more likely to interact digitally, they do not have the same opportunities to learn the nuances of conversation that their elders had. Teens are also less likely to understand body language and other critical social cues that are essential for effective communication.

Less Time Spent outside

Due to the technology’s prevalence, mental stress and fear of missing out, today’s teens are less likely to engage in outdoor activities.

This sedentary lifestyle can increase their risk for a variety of health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity. When teenagers use the internet, they prefer to stay inside on their computer, rather than enjoying the great outdoors or physical activities with friends.

The Fix

To keep teenagers from becoming socially isolated, parents and guardians need to responsibly and thoughtfully use technology.

Parents need to actively limit device use and encourage outdoor activities, as well as help them understand how the mental health concerns that come with excessive device use negatively affect their lives. Some steps you can take to protect your children include:.

Monitoring Screen Time

As a parent or guardian, you have sole responsibility for your children’s exposure to electronic devices. It is vital you monitor your child’s use of electronic devices.

Parents must determine if the time spent online is building a healthy relationship with the world or is hurting their self-esteem and limiting their social interactions outside the digital world and act accordingly.

Engaging in Physical activities

Parents and guardians should encourage their children to put down their electronic devices and engage in physical activities like sports, yoga, and other outdoor activities.

Physical activities can help reduce stress levels and offer opportunities to build relationships while developing critical physical and social skills that will be useful throughout their lives.

Encouraging family time

Parents should prioritize family time and create routines like family dinners where all electronic devices are to be turned off and other activities that families can enjoy together.

Encouraging the child to socialize and interact with people outside of online interactions creates an opportunity to interact with others, build real relationships, and to learn the methods of effective communication.

Conclusion

The dangers of technology, especially as it relates to our teenagers, have been playing out for years now.

If we want to keep our children healthy, both mentally and physically, we need to take affirmative steps to limit our use of technology, teach our children how to use it responsibly, and encourage them to build more direct relationships with the physical world. Kids could use technology as a tool to stay active, informed, and engaged in society. However, it is essential to keep in mind that its power lies in its limitations and not in its unlimited use.