Surat - A recent seminar titled "Re-Designing Relationship" at Sanskar Bharti School brought renowned child psychologist Dr. Prashant Karia to the forefront of a pressing issue: children and their growing dependence on mobile phones. Dr. Karia's stark warnings about the physical and psychological dangers of excessive screen time resonated with parents and educators alike, offering not only a diagnosis but also a roadmap for recovery.
Dr. Karia painted a grim picture of the consequences of unrestrained mobile use. He detailed physical ailments like eye strain, neck pain, and sleep disturbances, alongside the insidious psychological effects of depression, low self-esteem, and social isolation. Sharing the poignant story of a 15-year-old boy whose online gaming addiction disrupted his sleep, studies, and relationships, Dr. Karia emphasized the universality of the problem.
The statistics he presented were equally concerning. "We unlock our phones a staggering 150 times a day, chasing the dopamine rush of likes and notifications," he revealed, highlighting the addictive nature of social media apps. Dr. Karia's research further indicated that a staggering 61% of the population grapples with phone addiction, often experiencing a "hijacking" of the brain's reward center due to excessive use.
Despite the bleak scenario, Dr. Karia offered a beacon of hope by outlining practical steps parents can take to combat phone addiction in their children. These included:
- Creating a family media policy: Establishing screen-free zones like bedrooms and the dinner table, and setting specific times for device use.
- Implementing no-phone periods: Avoiding all phones for an hour after waking up and before bedtime, as well as during meals and family time.
- Embracing digital fasts: Encouraging weekly periods where technology is completely abandoned, allowing for reconnection with real-world interactions.
The seminar sparked productive discussions among parents and educators, highlighting the need for collective action to address the issue. As Dr. Karia aptly summarized, "Redefining our relationship with technology, especially for our children, is crucial for their well-being and growth. Let's strive for a more balanced existence, where screens don't eclipse the joys of real-world connections."
The event also saw the recognition of Apical Commerce Education's "rising stars," adding a note of inspiration and hope to the fight against screen addiction. With Dr. Karia's insights and proactive measures, parents can equip their children to navigate the digital world without compromising their physical and mental health.
