• • POSTED March 6, 2024

• BY Usable Knowledge

The Center for Digital Thriving, based at Project Zero, offers innovative advice to parents and teachers on reframing conversations about technology with teenagers, as detailed in an article published by Usable Knowledge on March 6, 2024. Recognizing the challenges and conflicts that often arise from discussions about technology use, the center advocates for a shift from frustration and eye-rolling to empathy and understanding. This approach aims to foster more constructive and supportive dialogues between adults and teens about their digital lives.

One of the key recommendations is to replace dismissive reactions with efforts to understand the intense social dynamics that today's teens navigate online. Technology is deeply entwined with their experiences of inclusion and exclusion, making it vital for their sense of belonging. Instead of immediately judging or dismissing their use of social media platforms like TikTok, Snap Maps, or group chats, adults are encouraged to remember their own adolescent desires for connection and acceptance. By expressing genuine interest and validation of their experiences ("that sounds like fun" or "that must be tough"), adults can build stronger relationships with the teens in their lives.

The article also acknowledges moments when eye-rolling seems justified, such as when a child ignores family dinner for their tablet or a student disrupts class with video recording. However, it argues that choosing empathy in these situations opens opportunities for guiding teens on healthier tech habits and deepening connections through shared experiences of needing friendship and belonging.

Furthermore, the call for empathy extends to adults' reflections on their own technology use. Recognizing the multifaceted roles that digital devices play in meeting needs for connection, stability, and leisure, the article suggests that adults examine their tech habits with kindness and curiosity rather than self-criticism.

By promoting empathy over eye-rolling, the Center for Digital Thriving's recommendations aim to transform discussions about technology into opportunities for connection, understanding, and mutual growth between adults and teens.

Original Article

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