Childhood Glued to Phones: Unpacking Mobile Addiction & 5 Ways to Help

• Mobile addiction is rampant, with children constantly on screens, leading to family conflicts and concerns.
• A legal battle in California alleges platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube are designed to be addictive, especially for children.
• Algorithms keep users hooked by automatically playing engaging content, leveraging preferences and viewing habits.
• Excessive screen time is linked to mental health issues, sleep problems, irritability, and low self-esteem due to dopamine release.
• Parents can help by setting screen time limits, making offline activities engaging, fostering dialogue, monitoring digitally with trust, and avoiding sudden phone confiscation.