This position statement seeks to identify the many positive benefits of media and digital technology for children and adolescents, but also recognises areas of concern.
Key messages
- There are many positive benefits of exposure to, and appropriate use of, media in children and young people.
- A number of issues concerning the problematic impact of media have been identified including Problem Internet Use and cyberbullying.
- Clinicians should be aware that problematic use of media, where it leads to significant social isolation and withdrawal, can impact adversely on normal development.
- Psychiatrists are particularly well placed to help work with children and young people with mental health problems where negative media experiences play a role.
- Further research is needed on the impact of excessive exposure to digital technology on development.
Background
Media is generally defined as the means of mass communication, and includes broadcasting, publishing and the internet. The scope of media continues to increase dramatically as digital technology becomes more readily available. Social media has become a common method of communication and online gaming provides a further avenue for interaction. Rapid access to instant communication is increasingly the norm, and access from highly portable sources has created a climate where there is constant access to the digital world.
Digital skills, participation and access to online services are important for the whole community, and there is a need for everyone to interact with media and digital technology in a smart, safe and responsible way. However, there are specific issues to consider for children and adolescents, who are learning to navigate the online world at younger ages. While being the greatest beneficiaries of the digital era and its many positive benefits, children and young people are also at risk of being exposed to age-inappropriate content, encountering cyberbullying, or losing their privacy. There is a need to be aware of media and digital technology impacts in order to provide balanced and optimal advice and support (Richards et al., 2015).