In an enlightening discussion with Mike Slater on Breitbart News Daily, Jill Samonian, the Director of Outreach at PragerU Kids, highlighted the alarming impact of technology addiction on America’s youth. She emphasized that rampant screen time is wreaking havoc on the mental health of young people, with many experiencing heightened levels of depression, anxiety, and loneliness. This issue is central to PragerU’s recent short documentary, “The Void: Finding Happiness in a World of Escapism,” which explores the challenges facing Generation Z, who are increasingly withdrawing into screens and escapism rather than engaging in meaningful social interactions and relationships.
Samonian shared her personal stance on technology use within her household, asserting the necessity of strict limits on screen time for children. She explained that her daughter’s smartphone is devoid of internet access and social media applications and is kept in a communal space to prevent excessive use. This approach, she believes, should be adopted by all parents and educators who prioritize the wellbeing of children, encouraging a return to fundamental parenting practices. Although this may be met with resistance from children, Samonian argues that it is crucial to shift the focus toward utilizing technology in educational and purposeful ways.
Pointing to research linking excessive screen time to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and likening technology’s addictive properties to those of cocaine, Samonian expressed urgent concerns over the mental health trends observed among young people. She noted that Generation Z is currently the most depressed and detached generation in America, struggling with a pervasive emptiness tied to their screen dependency. The troubling behaviors observed in classrooms, including severe behavioral disorders and inability to focus, have risen alongside the pervasive availability of screens, adding to the growing mental health crisis.
As a key factor in this crisis, Samonian identified what she termed “lazy parenting and education,” where the belief persists that constant access to technology is essential for children to thrive in a modern world. She challenged this notion, asserting that it is unhealthy for both children and society at large. Instead of succumbing to the pressures of technology, Samonian implored parents to be vigilant about monitoring their children’s screen interactions, encouraging them to foster genuine human connections and experiences outside the digital realm.
Emphasizing the importance of allowing children to experience boredom, she advocated for a return to basics in parental approaches. By depriving children of constant entertainment and stimulation from screens, parents can promote creativity, resilience, and interpersonal skills. Samonian’s contention is that by letting children feel boredom, they may cultivate a sense of initiative and learn to engage more meaningfully with their surroundings and peers.
In conclusion, Jill Samonian’s insights shed light on the pressing issues of technology addiction and its mental health repercussions for youth in America. The dialogue reminds parents and educators of their critical role in safeguarding children from the adverse effects of excessive screen time. By adopting intentional and balanced approaches towards technology, society can help foster healthier habits among children, thereby improving their overall mental and emotional wellbeing. The challenges highlighted in “The Void” serve as a call to action for a collective effort to address the underlying issues and ensure a brighter future for Generation Z.