The use of social networks has skyrocketed in recent years. GWI research shows that, globally, almost a third (30%) of 16- to 24-year-olds, 29% of 25- to 34-year-olds and 22% of 35- to 44-year-olds They spend more than six hours a day on social networks.
In addition to this, almost half of young people between 12 and 15 years old (48%) use TikTok every day, which represents an increase compared to 37% in 2022.
More than half (55%) say they use social media to talk to friends, a quarter (24%) uses them to buy things and 51% use them to find fun videos and posts.
But while social media may have its positive aspects, it can also cause serious problems in various areas of a child’s health. So much so, that the negative impact on cognition has been called ‘TikTok brain’, just as it appears The Sun.
According to experts, there are six signs that can alert parents that their children They spend too much time on this Chinese social network.
They sleep less and worse
Children over six years old they need up to 12 hours of sleep in a 24-hour period, but excessive time on social media could alter this.
Claire Lawcounselor and psychotherapist, says: “It’s not just children’s brains that are overstimulated: constant exposure to screens, especially late at night, leaves us on edge.”
“The blue light of screens alters the production of melatonin, ruining sleep patterns,” he adds. This lack of sleep can lead to limited energy during the day and a depressed mood.
“A solid rule? No screens at least one hour before bedtime to help them (and you) relax,” adds Law.
Simbarashe Shamua behavioral specialist, adds: “Research has shown that stopping using social media an hour before bedtime also improves sleep.”
Your posture is not correct
We know that spending too much time hunched over a laptop does not favor our position at alland the same applies to children’s phone use.
“The hunched neck position from being on the phone for hours will eventually lead to physical problems, if not immediately, then in the future,” he warns. Chris Meadenhypnotherapist and founder of The Meaden Clinic.
“The body is designed to move and flex; not to stay in a rigid position for hours every day,” he adds.
Claire Law suggests being careful with slumped shoulders or stiff handssince constant phone use can cause the ‘claw’ effect when sending text messages.
“Encourage regular breaks and do activities that strengthen your hands, such as drawing or molding clay, to counteract these effects,” he adds.
They seem more anxious
If your child seems to be more anxious or upsetit could be because you spend too much time on the internet.
“In my experience, social media has a powerful influence on our children and can cause an increase in anxiety, depression, self-harm and much more,” says Chris Meaden.
“It affects the development of the child, your social skillstheir attention span and overall mental well-being, and real-world activities are replaced by virtual ones,” he adds.
They want to be alone
“If a child spends too much time on social media, they will be more irritable, will get frustrated over small things, swill be impatient and may experience anger and rage,” says Chris Meaden.
Claire Law adds: “Excessive screen time can reprogram your child’s brain, making it difficult to concentrate and emotional regulation even more. “You may notice that they are more impatient when they are not using the phone.”
“The constant bombardment of quick responses from social media conditions their brains to crave instant rewardsleaving them frustrated with slower, real-world tasks like schoolwork,” he continues.
They refuse to share their passwords
Although children should have some privacy, to allow them to grow independently, according to Chris Meaden, parents should be concerned if their child refuses to share your social media passwords.
“Parents should pay close attention to their children’s direct messages, especially the hidden ones,” she says. “They should look at the photographs that are shared with their childrenincluding selfies and videos,” he adds.
How long is appropriate?
Thus, the question arises: How much time per day is appropriate for my child to spend on social networks? There are no official guidelines on the use of social networks for children or adults.
However, as explained Simbarashe Shamu: “In one study, 230 college students were randomly selected to continue using social media as usual or limit their use to 30 minutes per day. Significant improvements in psychological well-being were observed after two weeks.”
Half an hour each day may seem too little and unattainable, especially if your child currently spends much more time on social media. Claire Law recommends finding a balance.
“Have open conversations about your children’s internet habits and set limits that everyone can respect, like no screens during meals or before bed,” she says.
“And don’t forget: Children reflect what they see. Giving them a good example of using screens is half the battle,” he concludes.
