Famous psychologist Jean Twenge — advocate of a tech-free childhood — has already made such an appeal. She advocates for a zero-tolerance policy on how children use electronics. In her newest recommendations, Twenge argues very forcefully for keeping kids off social media until they are at least 16 years old. Tina Meier, center, encourages that children be denied free rein on smartphones until they have proven themselves worthy of a driver’s license. This approach aims to foster healthier habits and enhance overall well-being among adolescents.
Twenge’s recommendations are rooted in plenty of research. This study provides robust evidence of the link between electronic device use and worsening mental health, including anxiety and depression, in adolescents. March is Sleep Awareness Month and the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have some alarming news—77% of teens aren’t getting enough sleep. Nighttime cell phone use is contributing to this problem as well. A new survey from Common Sense Media shows an even more chilling trend. No wonder more than two-thirds of adolescents are losing sleep as a result of devices in their bedrooms.
“No electronic devices in the bedroom overnight.” She’s convinced this practice will be the most impactful habit parents help foster. It represents a huge potential benefit to their children’s sleep habits and mental health.
“If you can only do one thing, [this rule] might end up making the biggest difference,” – Jean Twenge
There will be enforcement problems, admits bully psychology. Parents may meet opposition, with possible retribution including “screamed doors.” Even with all these challenges, though, Twenge does stress the value of setting limits for how much time students spend on devices.
“The first few days might be tough, and you might get some slammed doors,” – Jean Twenge
Sleep deprivation is strongly correlated with all of the above harmful conditions, and Twenge’s research highlights just how essential quality rest is for our children. She warns that sleep deprivation is a major danger. Now parents have an equally tough battle in keeping their children from its lasting impacts, including chronic diseases and mental health issues like depression.
“Not getting enough sleep is a risk factor for just about everything we’d like our kids to avoid, from getting sick to feeling depressed,” – Jean Twenge
The American Academy of Pediatrics has raised alarms over children’s growing use of electronic devices. Along with other experts, they adamantly urge to take steps to limit its detrimental effects on youth mental health. That’s why the U.S. Surgeon General, Vivek Murthy, recently released an urgent advisory. He examines the national youth mental health crisis exacerbated by social media and connected devices.
Twenge’s guidelines extend beyond bedtime restrictions. She encourages parents to be as open and honest with their kids as possible about why decisions are being made around children’s access to devices.
“You should be honest with your kid [and say], ‘Look, I made a mistake. I now know more, I’ve learned more, and we’re going to do it differently going forward,’” – Jean Twenge
The psychologist’s recommendations are designed not only to curtail device usage but to foster an environment conducive to developing happy and successful adults. By delaying social media access and smartphone ownership, parents can help their children build resilience and focus on personal development without the distractions of constant connectivity.