Knowing About Smart Phone Addiction

Parents have always complained that children don't come with a handbook, and in the age of technology, many of them are facing a challenge that never before existed: smart-phone addiction. If you're like most people, you probably have your own smart phone, and if your family is like most, each of your kids probably have one too. Technology has become a part of our everyday lives, and it can be quite difficult to avoid. However, what happens when your smart phone begins to own you?

Both Kids and Parents Are Becoming Addicted

As a mentor, I've helped both parents and teens find balance in their lives and tone down their smart-phone usage. Often times, it seems that the parents can be as addicted as their teenagers. If you're concerned that your daughter is putting her smart-phone usage ahead of her schoolwork, you should ask yourself what sort of example you're setting for her. Do you often use your smart phone when home in the evenings? Do you check it at the dinner table? Do you allow it to interrupt time with your family? If you answered yes to any of these questions, it might be time to make a change.

The Dangers of Smart-Phone Addiction

You already know that becoming addicted to smart phones and social media can draw your attention away from other important matters. Many smart-phone addicts begin to neglect their real-life relationships with friends and family members, and some even stop caring about schoolwork, jobs and hobbies they once enjoyed. Even worse, losing the ability to check their phones can trigger many addicts into an emotional breakdown, leading to sleep disorders, depression, irritability and anxiety. When you know things are constantly happening online, you may feel upset at the idea of missing out.

Setting Limits For a Healthier Balance

It's likely that from here on out, smart phones are going to have a regular place in our lives. Therefore, it's important to know how to set limits and achieve a healthier balance between real life and technology. As a family, consider setting some limits on smart phone use, such as not allowing phones at the dinner table, putting them in a different room until homework has been completed and turning them off while taking part in recreational events. One teen girl that I mentor committed to making these changes, and she said that she felt much happier and more productive as a result. There is so many distractions in today world that keep us away from being present to who and what is right in front of us.  Pay attention to what is pulling you away from what is important in your life. Debra Beck

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