As the summer vacation is upon us, it is a good time for parents to think about the amount of time that their children can potentially spend with their gadgets if they are not helped to make good use of time. There are risks for their development that should not be underestimated. We share a response of one of our champions to a question on the topic.
Question: If we assume that the ages that are most vulnerable to negative emotions for girls are 10-14 and for boys 12-16, how does social media/gaming, as well as the music that is popular among them help or hamper their development?
The use of social media and gaming among children and teenagers has been a topic of debate in recent years. Many experts and parents believe that excessive use of these platforms can have negative impacts on the development of young individuals, especially those in the vulnerable age groups of 10-14 for girls and 12-16 for boys. However, there are also arguments that social media and gaming can have some positive effects on their development.
One of the ways in which social media and gaming can hamper the development of children in these age groups is by exposing them to inappropriate content and online predators. Young individuals may be exposed to cyberbullying, violence, and sexual content that can negatively impact their mental health and self-esteem.
Moreover, spending too much time on screens can lead to a lack of face-to-face social interactions, which are essential for developing interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence. It may also contribute to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as young individuals may prioritize online relationships over real-life connections.
On the other hand, there are some ways in which social media and gaming can actually help in the development of children and teenagers in these vulnerable age groups. For example, social media can provide a platform for young individuals to express themselves creatively and connect with like-minded individuals. It can also be a source of information and education, as young individuals can learn about new topics and engage in discussions with others from around the world.
Furthermore, social media and gaming platforms can provide a sense of connection and community for young people, allowing them to interact with others and express themselves creatively. It can also offer educational benefits, such as improving cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities.
In terms of music, popular genres among young people can include pop, hip-hop, rap, and electronic dance music (EDM). The impact of music on individuals can vary, with some studies suggesting that certain genres may influence mood, behaviour, and attitudes. It is important for parents and guardians to be aware of the content of the music their children are exposed to and to engage in open discussions about its potential impact. Listening to violent music can desensitize children to violence and aggression, potentially leading to an increase in aggressive behaviour and a decrease in empathy. It can also perpetuate negative stereotypes and harmful attitudes towards others.
As a parent of a primary school child, it is important to recognize and understand the vulnerability to negative emotions that children may experience during this stage of development. It is crucial to provide a supportive and nurturing environment for your child to help them navigate these emotions and build resilience.
One recommendation is to regularly check in with your child and open up lines of communication to create a safe space for them to express their feelings. Encourage them to talk about their emotions and validate their experiences, showing empathy and understanding.
In conclusion, the use of social media and gaming among children and teenagers in the vulnerable age groups of 10-14 for girls and 12-16 for boys can have both positive and negative impacts on their development. It is important for parents and guardians to monitor and regulate their screen time and to have open discussions about the potential risks and benefits of these platforms. By striking a balance and encouraging responsible use, social media and gaming can be valuable tools in the development of young individuals. Encouraging a healthy balance of online and offline activities, as well as promoting open communication and critical thinking skills, can help mitigate the negative effects and promote positive development.
Akeema Boatswain. San Souci R.C.