A recent study published in the journal JAMA Pediatrics found that over 75% of parents use some form of media, often smartphones, during family dinners. This habit can have a significant impact on children, as they learn from their parents’ behavior. Michelle Drapkin, a board-certified psychologist, notes that devices are one of the biggest issues she sees in her practice, and parents are often guilty of modeling this behavior themselves.

The Impact on Children

The study surveyed over 350 parents and found that 77.7% of them reported using media during their last family meal, with smartphone use being the most common type. Additionally, 70% of the parents reported that their children, aged 4-10, also engaged in media use during meals. Drapkin explains that when children try to connect with a parent who is distracted by their phone, they may give up or escalate to get attention, which can lead to negative consequences.

Drapkin emphasizes the importance of face-to-face, eye-contact connection, which is essential for children’s development. She suggests that parents put their phones away during dinner and engage in activities that promote real conversation, such as sharing the highlight of their day, something challenging, and something they are looking forward to.

Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.