Over the last two centuries, technology has improved so greatly that it changed the foundation of human society worldwide. Just over two decades ago, the most common form of technology in America was a bulky monitor that most people used as their family computer, CRT TV, and the first iPhone. Nowadays, most people can find others using the latest iPhone Max, gaming computers, Ultra TVs, and tablets. In addition, the advancement of technology has led to other breakthroughs, such as the invention of the Internet. The Internet has left a massive impact on society because it quickly grabs the attention of multitudes around the globe.
An experienced Arlington Family Lawyer from Brandy Austin Law Firm, PLLC explains that while technology can help millions to improve their life skills and be educated, it may have a detrimental effect on children. A report by Regis College concluded that American children ages 8 to 12 spend an average of 5 hours per day looking at their screens. In addition, nearly 53 percent of American children owned an iPhone by the time they were 11, and estimated to grow to 70 percent by 12.
How did Covid-19 affect the usage of technology among children?
At the end of 2019 and the start of April 2020, Covid-19 became a worldwide issue. Due to the Pandemic, the rates that children spend on their technology rapidly increase. Of course, with billions of children being home due to the lockdown, they had more access to technology, consuming an excessive amount of time, which resulted in children developing issues with their physical and mental health.
What are some adverse effects that technology has on young children?
The Child Mind Institution released a statement that this new generation of children would spend nearly 7 minutes on physical activities and spend the rest of the seven hours of the day on their screens. With the lack of exercise, children began to show symptoms of high obesity. In addition, information revealed by the National Library of Medicine conducted a report about screen time during meals among young children. They conclude that children exposed to longer screen time while eating will begin to consume more junk food to an unhealthy extent, which can lead to behavior problems. Along with obesity, children watching technology obsessively will begin to suffer from vision problems. Based on Vision Development childhood by the American Academy of Ophthalmology, children who do not spend a minimum of 40 minutes outside will develop Amblyopia. Amblyopia is a medical condition where the vision in children’s eyes does not develop correctly in childhood. Therefore, children who spend more time indoors are more at risk for Amblyopia.
What are the risks of exposing young children and teens to technology?
With the widely accessible Internet, technology has drastically affected kid’s ability to concentrate correctly. First, research shows that technology can affect kids’ ability to be patient with their surroundings and develop a sense of dissatisfaction in motor activities. Second is the high risk of depression amongst teens and young kids. Third, children and teens who spend considerable time on their screens have reported having mental issues. Fourth, media has increased suicide rates among teens, especially when the Covid-19 pandemic hit. Finally, exposing children to technology can lead to priority issues. These Kids would show no interest in their hobbies, academics, or social activities and begin to isolate themselves with their devices.
What are some positive effects of technology?
Despite all the risks of exposing children to technology, there are positive outcomes. WGU Texas issued that technology greatly benefits children by providing them with educational programs. Exposing children to educational programs can help them develop their minds and gain new life skills. Along with educational programs, programmers have developed classroom tools to assist in the learning process. The new devices can provide unique learning opportunities and provide motivation. Technology provides online sources for people to improve their life skills, like problem-solving and decision-making. After all, if technology is applied successfully to children at a young age, their mental development can improve significantly.
