Pediatrician Daniel Becker, an expert in child health, warns parents and educators about the dangers posed by mobile phones and social media for children’s development. He highlights the risks of excessive use of these technologies, whether it concerns effects on cognitive abilities, mental health, or the social interactions of the young.
Mobile Phones: Multiple Risks for Children
Daniel Becker sheds light on the potential dangers of mobile phones for children. According to him, prolonged exposure to screens can impair cognitive abilities, particularly concentration and memory. The radiation emitted by these devices is also controversial, although scientific evidence to date is still under debate. Becker emphasizes that children are more vulnerable to these radiations due to their still-developing nervous system.
Social Media and Social Pressure
Regarding social media, Becker highlights its impact on the psyche of young users. Children and adolescents can be subjected to overwhelming social pressure via these platforms, through unrealistic expectations of physical appearance and behavior. Cyberbullying is another serious issue, which can lead to devastating consequences for the mental health of young people.
Screen Addiction: A Growing Problem
Becker also discusses the addictive effects of mobile phones and social media. Constant notifications and the need to check one’s phone create an addiction comparable to that observed with certain substances. This addiction can disrupt sleep cycles, increase anxiety, and diminish the overall well-being of children. He reminds that this dependency can also affect academic performance and children’s traditional social activities.
Consequences on Physical Development
Beyond cognitive and psychological impacts, Daniel Becker warns of the physical consequences of using mobile phones. The time spent in front of screens often replaces physical activities, which are essential for the proper development of young people. Lack of exercise can lead to health issues such as obesity and musculoskeletal disorders.
Good Practices for Responsible Use
To mitigate these risks, Daniel Becker advises parents to adopt strict rules regarding the use of mobile phones and social media. Limiting screen time, encouraging outdoor activities, and promoting real social interactions are recommended strategies. Becker also suggests banning the use of mobile phones before the age of 15, although this measure is difficult to enforce.
The Importance of Digital Education
Finally, Becker emphasizes the importance of teaching children a healthy and balanced use of digital technologies. Parents and educators must play an active role in explaining potential dangers and modeling responsible behavior. He also advocates for educational interventions in schools to better prepare young people to manage these tools autonomously and safely.
