In today’s fast-paced world, teens are increasingly immersing themselves in technology, social media and extracurricular activities. As a result, time spent between teens and their families decreases. This shift raises an important question: what are the consequences of disconnection between teens and their families?
Research shows that the time teenagers spend with their family has decreased significantly over the past few decades. Teens are engaging in less and less meaningful conversations with their parents as a result of rigorous academics or commitment to extracurriculars. Therefore, many teens retreat into their rooms, often glued to their screens. This raises an alert about potential mental health issues that may arise. A growing body of evidence suggests that strong family bonds play a critical role in protecting adolescents from mental health issues, such as depression and anxiety. Moreover, research also indicates that effective communication with parents is linked to better academic performances and higher self-esteem in adolescents. Without regular interactions, misunderstandings can arise, leaving teens feeling isolated and unsupported.
Studies had also shown that teens that maintained strong family ties are more likely to experience positive outcomes in adulthood, including stable relationships and career success. Conversely, those who lacked parental involvement often struggled with issues such as substance abuse and difficulty forming healthy relationships later in life.
So, with Christmas approaching, set aside time for your family—whether through watching a movie, sharing meals, or simply talking about the day. Put away the schoolwork or extracurricular activities, and spend some quality time with those significant to you so that you won’t regret it in the future!
Photograph by: Eden Chen
Article by: Jisara W