More than half of the young people who use their phone the most want to reduce the amount of time they spend on them but many do not know how, a survey has found. A study into young people’s lives outside school from youth charity OnSide found that 76% of young people aged 11-18 spend most of their free time on screens because of habit, boredom and fear of missing out.
The study has dubbed these young people “Generation Isolation” because 75% of them spend most of their free time at home, limiting the possibility for physical social interactions.
Those studied used their screen time to engage in various activities like watching streamed content, playing computer games and communicating with friends.
Despite devices playing a large part in young people’s time outside of school, more than half (52%) of the most avid smartphone users say they want to reduce their usage, but almost half (42%) admitted they do not know how.
OnSide has suggested this generation would benefit from joining a youth club, stating that 93% of young people who attend a youth centre say it has made a positive difference to their lives.
Despite spending the majority of their free time online, only 15% of young people say using their smartphone makes them feel happiest.
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Here’s what you can do!
Parents can play a crucial role in addressing the challenges of “Generation Isolation.“
Here are some actionable strategies they can implement to help their children navigate social connections in a digital age:
Encourage Face-to-Face Interaction: Promote in-person social activities by organising playdates, family gatherings, or outings with friends. This helps strengthen real-life relationships.
Set Tech Boundaries: Establish clear rules about device usage, such as no screens during family meals or in bedrooms at night. This can encourage more meaningful interactions and better sleep habits.
Model Healthy Digital Behaviour: Be a role model by demonstrating balanced technology use. Share your experiences about how you maintain connections without relying solely on devices.
Discuss Feelings Openly: Create a safe space for children to express their feelings about loneliness or social anxiety. Regular check-ins can help them feel supported and understood.
Promote Extracurricular Activities: Encourage participation in sports, clubs, or community service where children can meet peers with similar interests and form bonds outside of digital spaces.
Teach Communication Skills: Help children develop strong communication skills, including how to initiate conversations, maintain eye contact, and read non-verbal cues, which are essential for face-to-face interactions.
Limit Social Media Exposure: Discuss the potential downsides of social media, such as comparison and cyberbullying. Help them curate their online interactions to foster positive experiences.
Encourage Hobbies: Support your children in exploring hobbies that require interaction with others, such as team sports, performing arts, or group projects, which can enhance social skills.
Be Involved in Their Digital Lives: Stay informed about the apps and platforms your children are using. Engage in conversations about their online experiences and friends.
Create Tech-Free Zones and Times: Establish specific areas and times in the home where technology is not allowed, encouraging family bonding and conversation.
Foster Empathy and Kindness: Teach children the importance of kindness, understanding, and empathy, helping them develop deeper connections with peers.
Encourage Family Activities: Plan regular family activities that encourage teamwork and bonding, such as cooking together, playing board games, or going for walks.
By implementing these strategies, you can help your children build stronger, more meaningful relationships and combat the feelings of isolation that can come with growing up in a digitally dominated environment.