Parents must teach kids about technology
Teens’ perceptions are diametrically opposed to those of their parents. Adolescents have consistently reported that their lives are enriched by their digital connections.
Many parents of teens experience technology as more of a burden than a blessing. They see their kids as technology junkies, addicted to their phones and unable to function without their digital umbilical cord.
Teens’ perceptions are diametrically opposed to those of their parents. Adolescents have consistently reported that their lives are enriched by their digital connections.
A national survey of “Teens, Health and Technology” just published by Northwestern University gives us three key insights into the electronic worlds of our kids.
Parents matter
When seeking answers to their health concerns, 84 percent of kids go online to get information about such issues as puberty, sexually transmitted diseases or cancer.
One teen reported that “I looked up what to do when I get my period. I found my answer. And it helped me know how to care for myself.” However, another teen incorrectly concluded that “Usually when you Google something, the first one that pops up will be pretty reliable.”
Most significantly, among the 13-18 year olds who took part in this survey, parents still ranked highest as the source of “a lot” of health information, followed by health classes in school and medical professionals.
Teens are telling us that we matter and are their best source for dealing with their concerns.
We are not being replaced by the web, unless we give up our responsibility to talk with our kids about things that really matter to them.
Teens are concerned about mental health
While the topics of fitness and diet were the most frequently searched health items, a significant number of teens wanted more information about stress, anxiety, depression and other mental health issues.
Teens are concerned about both their physical and mental health. Kids need our guidance in understanding and dealing with their feelings, thoughts and behaviors.
Don’t tell me that your teen won’t talk with you about this personal stuff. You’re wrong.
Teens are desperate to speak with a caring adult, if approached in a sensitive and supportive manner.
However, they want understanding and gentle guidance, not criticism and lectures.
Few restrictions on the Internet
Our kids take advantage of the fact that they can go virtually anywhere in the digital universe.
Forty-three percent of teens reported viewing pornography, and 41 percent indicated they sought information on such topics as how to play alcohol drinking games, get nicotine products, get or make illegal drugs, or become bulimic or anorexic.
The message for parents is to stop demonizing the Internet and start teaching your kids how to manage this important part of their lives.
The key to
Next week:
happiness!