Kids and Technology

There is no denying that technological advances have significantly impacted the leisure activities of children worldwide. In my opinion, this shift towards increased technology usage is predominantly negative, as the long-term effects on the human psyche are still largely unknown.

Advocates for children's use of technology argue that it can serve various purposes, including educational and productive activities. They emphasize the potential benefits of technology, such as accessing information, engaging in online research, and utilizing emerging innovations like artificial intelligence. They believe that with proper guidance and responsible usage habits, children can harness these benefits to become well-rounded learners and future contributors to society.

However, the psychological implications of excessive technology use are a cause for concern. Humans have not evolved to interact with a digital world, and children, in particular, are vulnerable to its influence. When a child becomes addicted to social media platforms like TikTok, for example, they may become less physically active and start viewing the world through a virtual lens. This can lead to the development of mental conditions such as anxiety, low self-esteem, disassociation, and depression. The correlation between the rise in suicide attempts among teenagers and the introduction of social media platforms serves as clear evidence of these potential negative consequences.

In conclusion, despite the potential utility of technology as a tool, its adverse effects on mental health outweigh its benefits. It is crucial for parents to carefully manage their children's screen time and promote a healthy balance between technology use and other activities. By doing so, we can mitigate the potential risks associated with excessive reliance on technology and prioritize the overall well-being of children.