Screenagers: The effects of screen time on young peoples' brains - Ami Bogda

Screenagers: The Effect of Screen Time on the Brain – Ami Bogda

Image Retrieved From: https://knowtechie.com/screen-time-turning-kids-digital-addicts-infographic/

Margalit, L. (2016).  Psychology today.  What screen time can really do to kids’ brains. https://www.psychologytoday.com/blog/behind-online-behavior/201604/what-screen-time-can-really-do-kids-brains

Summary:

• Between the ages of birth and three years are considered the “crucial years” which means that this is the time when the brain is developing at a rapid pace.  Therefore, the parents need to be more focused on developing their creativity instead of thinking that sitting them in front of an educational show is doing the job correctly.
• During early childhood, the front lobe is developing, this area is responsible for social interactions including nonverbal cues, and developing empathy towards others.  This is developed properly through human interactions, therefore instead of their eyes being glued to a screen, they need to be out socializing and developing those skills critical to creating relationships.
• According to Loraz, “Dopamine hits in the brain can feel almost addictive, and when a child gets too used to an immediate stimuli response, he will learn to always prefer smartphone-style interaction—that is, immediate gratification and response—over real-world connection.”

Assess:

• The author does have her PhD in Psychology and writes as though she has some expertise in this field of study.
• The author did not cite any sources, therefore I made the assumption that all of the research was performed by her, but it is unknown.

Gavin McClure.  (2015, November 9).  Crazy Affects of Screen Time on your Brain [video file].  Retrieved from https://youtu.be/HsNNcdDWW3I

Summary:

• This video depicts different facts about what screen time does to your brain and also provides a visual display to watch while the gentleman discusses the pressing issue. 

Assess:

• I don’t know what credentials the publisher has towards the research, but as I listened and followed along to the video, the facts provided I was able to locate within scholarly articles elsewhere. 

Reflection on Screen Time on the Brain:

After reading the article and watching the video and doing some of my own research of the topic, I agree with the fact that the more screen time in a person’s life is going to result in more negative effects.  I do believe that it is a large issue in today’s society with all of the technological advances, but I do believe that we as teachers need to help raise awareness about it as well.  I don’t feel that we should eliminate technology in their lives by any means, but limiting the amount of time spent in front of a screen could have a positive impact.