We live in unprecedented times. Technology is changing the world around us at a pace unlike any other period in history, and will only continue to do so. So how are these changes affecting family time?
It’s not as easy as throwing a blanket assessment on the issue, and declaring technology as good or bad. The truth lies somewhere in the middle. Here are some of the positive and negative ways technology is impacting the family dynamic.
Positive:
Increased connectivity
Communication is faster and easier than ever before. Gone are the days of mailing letters, or being required to deliver news face to face. This allows families to stay in constant contact, no matter where they might be. Emergency situations can also be handled in a much more efficient manner, especially with the creation of location tracking apps, and the ability for a child to instantly alert their parents when a dangerous situation arises.
More communication with extended family
Staying in touch with members of our family that live in another city, state, or even country has never been easier. Additionally, social media allows for extended families to remain up to date on all that is happening in each other's lives.
More memories captured
No more charging the family video camera. No more loading film or getting photos developed. Now that the vast majority of people have a smartphone with incredible video and photo capability, more memories are being captured and shared. Additionally, with the rise of cloud storage services, families are at will to capture as many photos or videos as their heart desires.
Negative:
Extensive screen time
Were you aware that “worldwide, the average person spends a total of 6 hours and 57 minutes looking at a screen each day (for internet-connected activities). And the majority of this (3 hours and 43 minutes) is spent on mobiles”? (Moody, 2022) With this sharp rise in time spent looking at screens, it’s not a far leap to figure out that this takes away from quality family time.
Decline in face to face interaction
Now that virtual communication has become the norm, families are spending less time interacting face to face. With mediums available like texting, video chatting, and calling, there is less of a need to speak in person.
Interrupted family time
Cell phones have wreaked havoc on family time, even with something as simple as a family dinner. With an endless source of distraction at our fingertips at all times, it has become harder to have daily uninterrupted family time.
Interested in learning more on this subject? Here are a few articles we recommend.
HOW TO USE TECHNOLOGY TO IMPROVE FAMILY LIFE
8 Ways Effective Technology Use Can Help Families Bond This Holiday Season