Everything you need to know about teen technology addiction

Today most teens you see are sporting the latest gadgets. This newfound obsession of screens distracts some teens, instead of enabling their education.

So, if you are one of those concerned parents whose teenager refuses to look up from their phone or get off the internet, then read on to discover the truth about teen technology addiction and its effects.

Causes of technology addiction in teens:

- A history of mental health disorders can cause any type of addiction, including technology and internet addiction.

- Low self-esteem is always a cause for addictions. People who are shy or have poor self-esteem may find it easy to connect with others on the internet where anonymity is possible.

- Lack of support at home or poor family environment can become a reason for technology addiction.

Symptoms of technology addiction in teens:

- The addict becomes tolerant to the addiction. Your teen needs to give more and more time to the addictive behaviour to satisfy his urges.

- Like all addictions, the addict can experience withdrawal symptoms if they are away from technology or the internet for a period of time.

- The addict is ready to sacrifice personal relationships, career and family in favour of the addiction.

- The addict uses technology or the internet to deal with any type of negative feeling or depressive 

thoughts.

- Your teen may be constantly checking their social media accounts, messages and other things.

Effects of technology addiction in teens:

- Poor eating habits

- Increased weight

- Depression

- Loneliness

- Anxiety

- Aggression

- Attention problems in school

- Poor sleep habits

- Poor academic performance

- Social phobia

Preventing technology addiction in teens:

- Set strict time limits for internet use

- Restrict the use of video games, TV, cellphones, etc.

- Allow your teen to only use the family computer for all online activities

- Supervises the time your teen spends on the internet

- Talk to your teen to understand the source of their addiction

Teen technology addiction, like all addictions, is an indication that your teen needs help. So instead of simply banning technology all together, try fin the source and solve the problem!

Enroll at The Assisted Learning Centre in Fish Hoek today, and your child will be taught by only the best teachers with excellent learning resources.