By Dr. Dean Beckloff | Contributor
It’s a recurring sentiment across generations: “What’s the younger generation coming to?” As someone who has experienced this throughout my life, I’ve noticed that the same concerns about youth continue to emerge over the years.
Concerns about social media and the significant time teens dedicate to it have become prevalent. With the rise of smartphones, social media usage has skyrocketed. Parents often express their frustration about how much time their children are engrossed in their phones, gaming, and the subsequent worries regarding their mental health and well-being.
The term “social media depression” has emerged, describing a form of clinical depression linked to the pressures and isolation resulting from heavy social media usage (Barnes & Wills, Understanding Mental Illness). This notion resonates with many adults today. Parents I interact with in our counseling center voice their concerns: “Our kids are consumed by their electronics, and it feels like nothing else is happening in their lives! They seem to want to do nothing else.” A common anxiety is the isolation observed in their teens. These young individuals often show signs of poor mood or depression, lack adequate sleep, and frequently display irritability.
It’s evident that this situation is detrimental—our children are experiencing pain and depression, which is something no parent ever expected to face. Taking proactive measures is crucial to aid teens who may be struggling.
Your teenager might be excessively focused on posting images online rather than genuinely engaging with others. They may find themselves glued to their smartphones, obsessively checking social media apps for likes and validation. Issues regarding self-image can arise, causing them to feel inadequate. This constant comparison can lead to feelings of failure, and at the same time, their academic performance may decline, and they might lack real-world interactions.
We must recognize that our teens require guidance—not condemnation. They need support and open dialogue rather than blame for their social media habits. The environment they navigate is vastly different from the one we experienced, presenting distinct pressures and stressors. Understanding this is crucial; it isn’t about good or bad—it’s a reality we must accept. Our teens need attentive guidance as they endeavor to make sense of their new world, and as parents, we must be there to assist them in maturing into independent adults.
What should parents do? Many of us are trying to adapt to this brave new world to support our children’s growth. It’s vital to collaborate, seek fresh research, and continue educating ourselves. Here are several suggestions for engaging positively with your teen regarding their social media usage:
1) Don’t dismiss or criticize your teen’s world, including their engagement with social media and electronics. They need understanding rather than judgment.
2) Be an attentive listener. Engage in conversation, but prioritize listening. It’s important to listen with the intent to understand rather than solely respond. Make sure to express your understanding back to your teen, fostering a sense of being heard.
3) Acknowledge and respect your teen’s knowledge and the values they exhibit. Parents are often surprised by the insights of their teens once given an opportunity to express themselves. These discussions can reveal their meaningful perspectives.
4) Share your thoughts calmly and clearly, avoiding emotional outbursts. While your teen might initially resist your input, your words will leave a lasting impact. Speak from a place of guidance rather than criticism, and allow those thoughts to resonate with them.
5) If you have concerns about your teen’s attachment to their devices, consider seeking professional help through counseling. They benefit from real human interaction, engagement, and discussion.
6) If you notice signs of depression in your teen, seek support. A counselor can help them process their experiences related to social media and electronics.
7) Reflect on your social media habits. Assess how much time you spend on these platforms, setting an example for your teen to follow.
With a better understanding of each other, we can navigate the intricate landscape of technology, gaming, and social media together. This generation represents immense potential, and we can take pride in their aspirations. I have faith in them and in the support they will provide one another as they engage with the world.
Editor’s Note: Dr. Dean Beckloff is the founder of The Beckloff Pediatric Behavior Center. Reach him at 972.250.1700 or www.drbeckloff.com.
