Response to TEDTalk: Abducted by Technology: Raising the Smartphone Generation by April Whiting (March )

In this TEDTalk, April Whiting makes the point that this is the first generation in history that has been compelled to deal with the proliferation of modern technologies, most especially screens such as Internet-enabled Smartphones. This unique position in human history also means that there are no corresponding counterparts from which modern parents can draw guidance and inspiration concerning how best to manage the multiple challenges that smartphones bring into the family home. According to Whitings account, she realized there was a problem when she was tucking one of her children into bed and looked into her eyes and realized that was the first time that day she had made eye contact due to their mutual preoccupation with their respective screens. This event catalyzed her determination to make a change for the good of her children as well as her own psyche.

Yet another noteworthy point made by Whiting is that the 21st century no longer features the stopping cues that once signaled people to stop doing one thing and move on to another. For example, once upon a time, people would drink a cup of coffee and read their newspapers and then it was time to do something else. Similarly, an episode of a popular television series would end one night, forcing viewers to wait an entire week for the next episode....

While some cavepeople may still live like this, the vast majority of Americans have instant access to anything they want to watch, anytime, anyplace.

It is therefore not surprising that increasing numbers of people of all walks of life are literally being abducted by technology, at least as far as their minds are concerned. It is also not surprising that given the powerful stimulus generated by dopamine that growing legions of older consumers and young people are finding themselves over-stimulated, hypervigilant and anxious...

…signatures on a contract that spelled out the consequences of smartphone abuse.

Although I certainly agree with absolutely everything Whiting says and applaud her efforts to share this message with other parents, this TEDTalk predates the Covid-19 pandemic and the lockdown period with closed schools that followed. It is difficult not to wonder whether she was able to maintain her newfound respect for and commitment to screen alternatives during this frightening, once-in-a-generation event, or if she conceded that there is a time and place for everything, and Covid-19 was the time for screens.

Notwithstanding this unavoidable skepticism, Whitings message remains relevant, even in a post-pandemic world. Her call for intentional, balanced technology use within families serves as a timely reminder concerning the importance of human connection and real-world experiences with family members. While the challenges of managing screen time may have evolved, the core principles of forging healthy relationships and promoting child development through engaged parenting and diverse activities remain as vital…