A growing number of children and teenagers are struggling with social media addiction, according to experts. The World Health Organization (WHO) reports a sharp rise in problematic social media use among young people, while a study by the University of Cambridge found that nearly half of British teenagers feel addicted to social media. This article explores the warning signs of social media addiction and offers advice for parents on how to help their children develop a healthy relationship with technology.
With the increasing prevalence of social media use among children and teenagers, experts are sounding the alarm for parents to be vigilant about potential signs of addiction. Commemorating Safer Internet Day on February 11th, experts in addiction and internet utilization have issued warnings about the telltale signs parents should look out for to ensure their child isn't becoming consumed by the digital realm.
A significant proportion, nearly half (48 percent) of British teenagers, admit to feeling addicted to social media, according to research conducted by the University of Cambridge. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also observed a 'sharp rise' in problematic social media use among nearly 300,000 adolescents in Europe, central Asia, and Canada. This concerning trend witnessed a surge from 7 percent in 2018 to 11 percent in 2022. Problematic social media use encompasses addiction-like symptoms such as an inability to control social media consumption, experiencing withdrawal effects when not using it, neglecting other activities in favor of social media, and facing negative consequences in daily life due to excessive use, as stated by the WHO. \Lee Fernandes, lead therapist at the UK Addiction Treatment Centres (UKAT) Group, emphasizes the seriousness of social media addiction, stating, 'Parents should be worried about social media addiction, as we know first-hand that it’s a very real problem. However, there’s a difference between a child using social media for longer than the parent wants them to, and the child actually having an addiction.' Fernandes explains that the addictive nature of social media stems from the release of dopamine in the brain as a reward, encouraging young people to repeatedly engage with these platforms. 'Social media is complex in that it not only provides instant gratification via 'likes', it can be accessed 24/7, 365 days a year, which enhances the users’ desire to always be on these platforms in case they miss out on something happening,' he says. 'The user can disappear into the world of social media and live their life through everyone else’s online, making it incredibly difficult to value their own, real-world lives.' \Fernandes warns that young people themselves may struggle to recognize their own problematic social media use, claiming individuals with social media addiction have 'lost the power of choice.' Addiction experts recommend monitoring your child's behavior when they are not using social media to assess if they can still effectively manage everyday activities without it. For instance, Fernandes suggests asking your child: 'How do you feel when you can't access social media?' and 'Do you feel the urge to check your phone or social media constantly?' Arguing with your child over social media can also serve as a red flag, indicating they might be struggling. They might exhibit signs of sleep deprivation or physical agitation when not using social media. 'Observing the behaviour of the child when they’re not on social media will allow parents to better understand whether their child’s relationship with social media has become unhealthy and addictive in nature or not,' says Fernandes. 'And if they believe it has, it’s crucial for them to seek professional help and advice sooner rather than later,' he emphasizes.
SOCIAL MEDIA ADDICTION INTERNET SAFETY PARENTING MENTAL HEALTH TECHNOLOGY
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
The Rise of the 'Manosphere': How Podcasters Are Reshaping American MediaThe 'manosphere,' a group of online influencers and comedians led by Joe Rogan, has emerged as a powerful force in American media, influencing young men and even shaping political discourse. This article explores how this shift is occurring, analyzing the growing popularity of podcasts and YouTube as alternative news sources, and the impact this has on traditional media.
Read more »
Salford Social Housing Rent to Rise by Up to £20 a MonthSalford City Council has approved plans to increase social housing rents by up to four percent, leading to an average monthly increase of £20 for some tenants. The decision aims to address rising costs associated with building regulations, fire safety, and consumer standards. While some service charges will decrease due to energy cost adjustments, the council emphasizes the need to balance its housing revenue account and ensure the continued provision of quality housing and services.
Read more »
Meta's Content Policy Shift Reflects Tumultuous Times for Social MediaMeta's decision to end fact-checking on Facebook and Instagram, coupled with CEO Mark Zuckerberg's appointment of a Trump ally to its board, signals a shift in the social media landscape influenced by political pressures. This move comes amidst a period of instability characterized by the threat of bans against platforms like TikTok, the rise of alternative networks like Bluesky and Truth Social, and growing concerns about polarization and user safety.
Read more »
Angela Cullen at centre of Lewis Hamilton reunion rumours after social media postIs Angela Cullen poised for a role within Lewis Hamilton's inner circle at Ferrari?
Read more »
Bannau Brycheiniog National Park Struggles with Social Media-Fueled OvertourismBannau Brycheiniog National Park in Wales is grappling with the negative impacts of overtourism, driven largely by social media influencers showcasing popular hiking spots. The park authority is urging visitors to consider off-peak travel times and promote responsible tourism practices.
Read more »
Cat's 1,000-Mile Journey Puzzles Social MediaA woman's cat travelled nearly 1,000 miles to the Czech Republic, leaving her and social media users amazed. The owner tracked her cat's location using an AirTag and eventually flew to Prague to reunite with her. The woman explained that she had temporarily relocated her cat due to threats from her landlord towards the pet.
Read more »