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Dr. Zumarraga’s advice for recognizing the warning signs and helping teens develop into healthy adults:
- Create a family digital plan with clear screen time limits. Use built-in tools to monitor your teen’s device usage. Setting boundaries may be tough at first, but it’s essential for their long-term health and safety.
- Be the example—kids learn digital habits by watching the adults around them.
- Prioritize face-to-face conversations and eye contact with your kids. Digital distress can lead teens to withdraw and reduce family communication. Reclaim daily conversations—especially with teenage girls—by discussing what’s real vs. manipulated online. This can support healthier self-esteem.
