Technology
Even before the pandemic and ensuing social distance, research had shifted the discussion over screens from good versus bad to how much, doing what, and by whom. Studies published in just the past year have shown that overall, any effects of digital technology on young people’s well-being are small, and not nearly as bad as not getting enough sleep, for example.
In fact, the best parts of digital technology may actually support adolescents’ healthy development and well-being, as they did during the depths of the COVID pandemic when the usual avenues for social contact—school, summer enrichment programs, and visits to friends’ houses—were disrupted.
Resources
Technology | Contribution | January 20, 2021
Social Media for Social Justice: How Young People Are Going Online to Improve the World IRL
Health & Wellbeing | Technology | October 6, 2021
Facebook’s Own Data Is Not as Conclusive as You Think About Teens and Mental HealthHealth & Wellbeing | Technology | March 1, 2019
How Smartphone Data Could Help Predict and Prevent Suicide in Adolescents
Health & Wellbeing | Peer Relationships | Technology | September 3, 2021
Teenagers Aren’t as Lonely in Lockdown if Interacting Positively OnlineTechnology | December 19, 2019
The Truth About Screen Time
Council Report | STEPS for Youth | Education | Mental Health | Digital Tech | November 16, 2022
Engaging, Safe, and Evidence-Based: What Science Tells Us Adolescents Need When Online