Title: Concerns Over Internet Addiction Outweigh Substance Addiction Among Parents, Survey Finds
In a recent survey published by JAMA Network Open, it was discovered that parents are more worried about their adolescent children’s internet addiction than substance addiction. The study focused on parents of children aged 9 to 15 years and shed light on the perception of internet use as both beneficial and concerning.
While the internet has undoubtedly fostered family connectedness, allowing parents to stay connected with their children’s lives, it also poses risks such as cyberbullying and addiction. Parents expressed concerns about promoting or restoring healthy internet use in their young adolescents, sparking a need for greater education and support.
The survey assessed parents’ perceptions of the risks and benefits associated with internet use, including physical and cognitive development, safety, addiction, and family connectedness. The findings were concerning, as excessive internet use has been linked to various mental health problems, such as higher rates of alcohol dependence, depression, anxiety, and insomnia. It has also been associated with difficulties in socializing, having healthy conversations, and exhibiting empathy.
Of the parents surveyed, approximately one-third reported concerns about addiction to both the internet and substances. However, the study revealed that overall, internet addiction concerns outweighed substance addiction concerns.
Social media use and video gaming were identified as the activities with the highest potential for addiction. The study acknowledges its limitations, as it focused solely on the perspectives of parents and did not include the viewpoints of their children.
To tackle these growing concerns, researchers emphasize the need for further collaboration between families, communities, and the tech industry. By working together, it is hoped that these concerns can be addressed effectively, and healthy internet habits can be promoted among young adolescents.
In conclusion, the survey highlights a growing worry among parents regarding internet addiction in their adolescent children. The study emphasizes the necessity of better education and support for parents, as well as the importance of collaboration between various stakeholders to address these concerns and promote responsible internet use among young individuals.
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