Are Only Young People Addicted to Screens? A Look at Candy Crush
A recent discussion on screen addiction highlights a generational divide, revealing that screen time is not solely a young people’s issue. Bailee, a 24-year-old, shared concerns about her mother’s engagement with her phone, particularly games like Candy Crush. This observation has sparked conversations about the screen habits of older generations compared to younger individuals.
Screen Addiction Across Generations
Older Adults and Social Media
Countries like Spain and Greece are considering stricter regulations on social media usage, especially for young people. Australia has already taken a significant step by restricting access to certain platforms for children under 16. While the focus often rests on teenagers, many young adults notice that older generations are deeply engrossed in their devices.
Screen Time Statistics
- A YouGov survey showed that over 50% of adults aged 45 to 64 spend more than five hours daily on screens.
- One in five of these adults estimate spending between seven to eight hours daily on various devices.
- Approximately 70% of people aged 18 to 29 report at least five hours of screen use each day, with nearly one-third exceeding nine hours.
Neuropsychologist Michoel Moshel underscores the significance of these findings. He believes younger people can play a crucial role in guiding older generations towards healthier screen habits.
The Role of Young People
Helping Parents Understand Screen Use
Dr. Moshel stated that today’s “digital natives” can assist older family members in recognizing excessive screen use. Many younger individuals express a desire to moderate their screen time. Approximately 70% of those aged 18 to 29 have shown interest in reducing their usage in the past year.
However, personal experiences illustrate the challenges in making this change. Bailee mentioned how integral smartphones have become to modern life. Apps provide convenience but also create addiction through engaging design and instant gratification.
Shared Experiences Among Generations
Jess, a 22-year-old, has attempted to limit her screen time through app restrictions but has struggled to achieve lasting success. She noted a shift in her parents’ attitudes towards technology, reflecting a growing recognition of the digital landscape that younger generations navigate.
Conversely, Jazmin, a 15-year-old, found her screen usage reduced after being restricted from social media. She remarked on the benefits of decreased screen time, which allowed for greater engagement in other activities.
Defining Problematic Screen Use
Dr. Moshel has indicated that an estimated 10% of individuals may struggle with screen time management. Of these, 3% to 5% could be clinically addicted. This addiction is characterized by a loss of control, where individuals find it difficult to manage their usage intentionally.
Screen Time Across Age Demographics
- Interwar and baby boomer generations reported over three hours of daily screen time in a recent Australian Bureau of Statistics dataset.
- Gen Z females exhibited more time spent on phones, while males in the same group played digital games longer than other generations.
As societal awareness of screen use evolves, conversations between generations become increasingly vital. Understanding screen time’s impact can help foster healthier habits and encourage mutual respect for differing digital experiences.
