Slow Their Scroll! Establish Screen Time, Social Media Boundaries for Children, Teens

YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook are top online platforms.

Although social media is commonplace, it can affect adolescents academically, socially and developmentally. Pew Research reports that 35 percent of teens say they use at least one of them “almost constantly,” according to Pew Research Center’s teen survey 2022.

“Excessive use of social media can lead to distractions, reduced concentration, and decreased academic performance. Spending too much time on social media may also cut into study time and affect sleep patterns, which are crucial for learning,” Rikki Clark McCoy said.

McCoy, CEO and Founder of Flourishing Minds, runs a private practice providing holistic therapy and wellness coaching services. The therapist provided insight and tips to promote responsible online behavior to help your children develop the skills and habits they need to stay safe, respectful and informed in the digital age.

She added that while usage of social media can provide opportunities for connectivity, it can also lead to feelings of isolation or loneliness, especially if adolescents compare themselves unfavorably to their peers’ curated online personas. It may also promote cyberbullying and a distorted perception of social norms and relationships. 

Developmentally, McCoy noted that constant exposure to social media can influence adolescents’ self-esteem, body image and identity formation. 

She said, “They may feel pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards or engage in risky behaviors to gain validation or acceptance online.” 

Additionally, excessive screen time can affect brain development and interpersonal skills. Too much recreational screen time can have harmful mental health effects on teens and children. 

“Spending excessive time on screens, especially on social media, has been linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety in adolescents. Constant comparison with others and exposure to negative content can contribute to feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem,” McCoy cautioned.

She further noted that screen time, particularly before bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns. 

“The blue light emitted by screens interferes with the production of melatonin, making it harder to fall asleep and negatively impacting the quality of sleep. Poor sleep quality is associated with various mental health issues, including depression and anxiety.”

The expert also explained that excessive screen time can lead to social withdrawal and isolation. It may replace face-to-face interactions and outdoor activities. This can contribute to feelings of loneliness and exacerbate existing mental health problems. 

Another consequence of heavy screen use can be impaired attention span and cognitive control in children and teens. This can lead to difficulties focusing in school, impulsivity and challenges with self-regulation. 

Young people often model their parents’ behaviors when it comes to the use of social media and screen time.

“When parents demonstrate responsible and balanced screen habits, children are more likely to follow suit and adhere to these guidelines,” McCoy stated.

Excessive screen time can detract from quality parent-child interactions, such as conversations, shared activities and bonding time. Conversely, when parents demonstrate a healthy balance between screen time and other activities, such as outdoor play, reading, hobbies, and spending time with family and friends, they set a positive example for their children. 

Quality interactions can be promoted by establishing tech-free zones and times to encourage face-to-face communication and meaningful interactions among family members and friends. 

“Without the distraction of screens, people can fully engage with each other, share stories and strengthen their relationships,” McCoy noted.

Mealtimes are an excellent opportunity for families to connect and bond. 

“When screens are not allowed at the dinner table, it allows everyone to focus on enjoying their food, engaging in conversation, and practicing mindful eating habits,” McCoy said.

Parents should also educate their children and teens about online safety; set clear guidelines that include clear rules and guidelines for internet use, including time limits, appropriate websites and apps, and behavior expectations; help children develop critical thinking skills to evaluate online information critically; and promote empathy, kindness and respectful communication in online interactions.

Discuss the importance of treating others with kindness and consideration, both online and offline, and encourage children to stand up against cyberbullying and harassment.

It is also important to stay involved in children’s online activities by monitoring their internet use, setting parental controls, regularly checking in with your children about their online experiences, and addressing any concerns or issues that arise.

McCoy added, “Talk to your children about the potential consequences of their online actions, both positive and negative. Help them understand the impact of their digital footprint, including how their online behavior can affect their reputation, relationships and future opportunities.”Visit www.flourishingmindsllc.com and on social media @therapywithrikki to learn more about McCoy.