A vast number of parents are expressing concerns over their children’s overuse of social media as they return to the classroom, according to a new poll.
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The top three topics chosen were the overuse of devices and screen time, social media, and internet safety. The topic of depression and suicide, bullying, and stress and anxiety ranked in as the next three point of concerns.
“Children are using digital devices and social media at younger ages, and parents may struggle with how to appropriately monitor use to prevent negative impacts on safety, self-esteem, social connections, and habits that may interfere with sleep and other areas of health,” said Mott Poll co-director and Mott pediatrician Dr. Susan Woolford in a news release.
Previous sources have reported that the increasing number of hours kids spend on their phone screens is a growing concern for parents. Rates of severe depression and suicide have dramatically risen in children since the COVID-19 pandemic, with parents showing a major concern on the mental wellbeing of their kids.
“Parents still view problems directly impacting physical health, including unhealthy eating and obesity, as important children’s health issues,” said pediatrician Dr. Susan Woolford. “But these have been overtaken by concerns about mental health, social media and screen time.”
“The mismatch between the growing number of youths with mental health concerns and the limited access to mental health services has serious implications for children’s well-being,” Woolford added. Brain specialists have shown that acquiring likes, engaging with people, and temporarily escaping reality triggers the brain’s reward system, releasing dopamine.
Parents are encouraged to monitor and limit their children’s screen time throughout the day, and ensure their kids receive the proper amount of physical exercise and interaction with fellow colleagues.
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