The “iGeneration” is officially upon us. Unsure who they are? Just look for those aged roughly 13 to 25 years old. They’re the ones glued to their smartphones, often unaware of their surroundings. As smartphones have become ubiquitous, the implications for this generation of kids are becoming increasingly alarming.
Positive Aspects of the iGeneration
Let’s start with some positives. According to a recent book by Sarah Glen titled iGen: How Today’s Hyper-Connected Kids Are Growing Up More Cautious, Tolerant, and Unhappy—and What It Means for Their Future, this generation is reportedly the safest we’ve ever seen. They tend to prefer the comfort of home, maintaining connections with friends through their devices rather than venturing out. Additionally, they are less likely to be involved in car accidents and consume less alcohol compared to earlier generations, which is certainly encouraging.
Alarming Downsides
However, the downsides are troubling. Social and behavioral psychologists who study generational changes warn that the surge in smartphone and social media use has triggered an unprecedented shift in youth behavior. They describe it as an “earthquake of a magnitude we’ve not seen in a long time.” There is strong evidence suggesting that these devices profoundly affect young people’s lives, often leading to significant unhappiness.
The crux of the issue lies in how much time these young individuals are spending on their phones. On average, they dedicate around six hours per day to screen time, resulting in reduced face-to-face interactions and lower participation in social activities compared to previous generations. They are dating less, working fewer part-time jobs, and spending less time studying. Instead of becoming more responsible adults, they are retreating into their rooms, absorbed in their screens.
The Correlation Between Screen Time and Happiness
The Monitoring the Future survey, funded by the National Institute on Drug Abuse, has found a clear correlation between screen time and happiness. Teens who engage in more screen-related activities report higher levels of unhappiness, while those who spend time participating in non-screen activities, like exercise and socializing, tend to report greater happiness.
I’m not suggesting I have all the answers as a mother of three boys. I fully understand the struggle to find the right balance with technology. However, studies show that increased screen time is linked to higher rates of depression among teenagers. According to Glen’s research, eighth-graders spending excessive time on social media face a 27% higher risk of depression. Those who engage in activities like sports, community service, or even homework see a significant reduction in their risk of suicide.
Concerning Findings
One particularly alarming finding is that teens who spend three or more hours a day on electronic devices are 35% more likely to exhibit suicidal tendencies. While teen homicide rates have dropped, suicide rates among adolescents have risen, suggesting that as they spend less time together, they have become less likely to harm one another, but more likely to harm themselves.
As a concerned parent, I find this information unsettling. While it’s unrealistic to eliminate smartphones entirely, we must consider how to manage their use in our homes. I have young drivers who rely on these devices for safety, and I have a college student who needs a phone for communication. It’s a delicate balance, but we must strive to promote healthier relationships with technology.
Moving Forward
Moving forward, I plan to model a more balanced approach to screen time in my family, hoping my children will follow suit. For those looking for more guidance on navigating these challenges, resources like Progyny’s blog offer valuable insights. Additionally, if you’re interested in family planning, check out Make a Mom’s Baby Maker at Home Insemination Kit for helpful tools. You can also find more information about our approach to parenting in our terms and conditions here.
Summary
The rise of smartphones among today’s youth is leading to concerning trends in mental health, with increased screen time correlating to higher levels of depression. While there are positive aspects to smartphone use, such as safety and connection, the negative effects are becoming increasingly pronounced. Parents must navigate this complex landscape to foster healthier relationships with technology in their homes.