elpais.com
Technology, Overprotective Parenting Fuel Youth Mental Health Crisis
Increased technology use among children, coupled with overprotective parenting, is causing higher rates of anxiety and depression in young people born after 1996, according to studies by Dr. Jean M. Twenge and Professor Jonathan Haidt; a shift towards more autonomous, less supervised childhoods is suggested as a solution.
- What is the primary impact of increased technology use and overprotective parenting on children's mental health?
- The increasing use of technology, especially among young children, is leading to higher rates of anxiety and depression. A study by Dr. Jean M. Twenge shows that individuals born after 1996 exhibit significantly higher rates of mental health issues than previous generations, both in the US and Europe. This is linked to the reduced autonomy and overprotection experienced by children, starting in the 1980s, long before widespread device use.
- What long-term societal implications could result from the current trends in technology use and parenting styles?
- To counteract this trend, we need a shift from 'carpenter' parenting—characterized by high expectations and constant supervision—to 'gardener' parenting, as suggested by Alison Gopnik. This involves providing children with more autonomy, encouraging unstructured play, and fostering independence through tasks, social interactions, and outdoor experiences. This approach aims to mitigate the negative impacts of both excessive technology and overprotective parenting.
- How do the contrasting approaches of 'carpenter' and 'gardener' parenting contribute to the observed mental health trends?
- The problem stems from a combination of factors: excessive technology use isolates children, hindering social interaction, while overprotective parenting limits their independence and opportunities for unstructured play. Professor Jonathan Haidt highlights the contrast between the freedom afforded by devices and the hyper-vigilance in the real world experienced by children. This creates a generation more vulnerable to mental health problems.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the issue as a problem primarily caused by technology and parental overprotection. While these factors are significant contributors, the framing might downplay other potential contributing factors to children's mental health, such as genetic predisposition, societal pressures, or peer influence. The headline (if there were one) would likely reinforce this framing, emphasizing the negative consequences.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral, although words like "desgraciadamente" (unfortunately) and phrases describing excessive parental involvement as "obsesión" (obsession) carry slightly negative connotations. More neutral terms could be used to maintain objectivity. For example, instead of "obsesión," the article could use "dedication" or "intense focus.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the negative impacts of technology and parental overprotection on children's mental health. While it mentions the benefits of technology and positive parenting styles implicitly, a more balanced view acknowledging these aspects would strengthen the analysis. For example, the article could explore the potential benefits of technology in education or social connection when used responsibly. The omission of these counterpoints might lead readers to form an overly pessimistic view.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat false dichotomy between 'carpenter parents' (overprotective) and 'gardener parents' (allowing more autonomy). While this framework is useful, it oversimplifies the complexities of parenting styles. Many parents fall somewhere in between these two extremes, and a more nuanced approach would be beneficial.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights a correlation between increased access to technology and devices, particularly among young people, and rising rates of anxiety, depression, self-harm, and other mental health issues. This directly impacts SDG 3, which aims to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all at all ages. The excessive use of technology and the resulting social isolation contribute negatively to the mental health of children and adolescents, hindering progress towards this goal.