Smartphones in the children's room: a curse or a blessing for our little ones?

Smartphones in the children's room: a curse or a blessing for our little ones?

The use of smartphones and their effects on children were the main topic of a current discussion evening by the Lower Austrian Employees' Association (NÖAAB). Under the title “Exchange of Words”, members gathered to talk to experts, including: Andrea Buhl-Aigner and Claudia André to discuss the questions of modern media consumption.

The meeting discussed the social and psychological consequences of smartphones on children and young people. Andrea Buhl-Aigner warned that a relaxed approach to cell phones and tablets in families is crucial. She urged parents not to reward their children with smartphones or use them as punishment in order to promote a healthy and conscious relationship with technology.

Responsibility of parents and schools

The responsibility that parents have to take on in the digital space was highlighted by Buhl-Aigner. She encouraged acting as role models and seeking help if signs of behavioral addiction or loss of control occurred. Claudia Andre advocated for individual solutions in schools instead of trying to impose general guidelines. She called for additional support for teachers to better enforce regulations on cell phone use.

The discussion confirmed the growing importance of cell phone use in school contexts. Christiane Teschl-Hofmeister, regional chairwoman of the NÖAAB, referred to measures already initiated by the state of Lower Austria and the Education Directorate to promote the responsible use of smartphones in schools. Information materials are provided in collaboration with experts to support both teachers and parents.

A look back at young people's media use

Another aspect of the discussion about the use of smartphones was supported by current studies and expert opinions on media use among young people. According to a study by the DAK and the University Hospital Hamburg Eppendorf 2024, certain addiction problems in the area of ​​gaming and social media have decreased slightly, but are still above the level of 2019. Over 25% of 10 to 17 year olds use social media problematically, with around 5% being considered dependent. On average, teens spend more than 2.5 hours per weekday on social media, half an hour more than five years ago.

Experts warn that this intensive use is unfortunately often associated with negative effects. Neurobiologist Martin Korte noted that social networks can negatively impact creativity and personal interactions. US psychologist Jean M. Twenge speaks of a worrying increase in depression among teenage girls in connection with smartphone use. The use of manipulative designs in apps is also considered problematic. Platforms use techniques that target the reward system in the brain, resulting in children and young people spending more and more time on these platforms.

Recommendations for healthy media consumption

Among the recommended guidelines for screen use, it is advised to limit the amount of time children spend in front of screens. Children under three years old should not receive any screen time, while a maximum of 30 minutes per day is recommended for children between three and six years old. The recommendations go further and set the maximum limit at 45 minutes for the age group of six to nine years. Experts agree that clear rules and an accompanying parental role are crucial in guiding children safely through the digital world.

Overall, the discussion about smartphones and their effects on children requires a high level of commitment and responsibility from both parents and educational institutions. The necessary steps to promote healthy media use are far from complete, and it remains to be hoped that the current measures are fruitful and benefit young people.