“Tech Addiction” – Help for Parents

Feb 7, 2018 | Teaching Manners

Within five minutes of watching this interview (video of interview is included below), a mother called us to express concern that her son, a teenager, needed help conversing with adults.  This is a phone call we receive all too often. Are you ready to join this national movement, a “Truth Campaign” to raise and start a public conversation about how “tech addiction” is effecting our society, our culture? Silicon Valley Insiders are teaming up to fight “tech addiction”.

Another aha moment that we as a society have a “tech addiction”,  is when a parent comments that their child (or adult child) never calls and only will send a text when communicating.  What is wrong with connecting in person or making a voice call?  Are we really that busy?

Truth About Tech Addiction

Fifty percent of teenagers and adults admit they are addicted to their devices. Many of us check our devices every hour.  Facebook, Instagram and Snapchat along with other social media platforms are designed to keep us hooked. Keep in mind – Facebook is a 40 billion dollar a year advertising company!  Facebook wants us to stay on their platform as long as possible.

Your Children Are Watching You

Let’s get to the point.  Parents, your children are watching you.  How much time are you spending with your phone?  Is it placed on your kitchen or dining room table during breakfast, lunch and dinner?  Is it close by, in your lap (not a good idea)?  How often are you giving your child the gift of being fully present?  Are they observing you being fully present with other adults or spouses?

Tips and Resources to Assist You

This is a short list!  Parents, change they way you are parenting with your devices.  Clearly outline your expectations at home.  When are your children allowed to have their devices?  Are they allowed to use their phone or have them on the table during family meals? Is the TV on while your are having a family discussion?  Do you have them turn off their phones one or two hours before bed?  Discuss as a family how you are going to prevent a “tech addition”.

Join Manners To Go In This National Movement

We at Manners To Go and our licensees around the world are committed to joining this movement.  Our licensees are trained and certified to teach children, teens and parents on how to communicate with others. Communication and interpersonal skills are vital to our communities and relationships.  Adults need to build and have relationships to be successful well rounded adults.  Your children need to observe this.

Additional Resources: Silicon Valley Insiders are Teaming Up to Fight Digital Addiction

James Steyer, the founder of Common Sense Media; and Tristan Harris, a former design ethicist at Google and co-founder of the Center for Humane Technology are leading the campaign.

Watch the interview by clicking on the video below: 

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