The expert spoke about the negative consequences of constant use of gadgets.

Modern technologies have become an integral part of life, but their uncontrolled use, especially by children and adolescents, can lead to deformation of key aspects of development.: the ability to empathize, engage in live dialogue, and recognize nonverbal cues. Ekaterina Bulgakova, Associate Professor of the Department of Labor Psychology and Psychological Counseling at the State University of Education, told Izvestia on April 20.

"Children, whose interaction with the world is replaced by screens, do not form basic social "muscles": it is more difficult for them to build trusting relationships, resolve conflicts, and show flexibility in communication. In adults, this can be expressed in increased anxiety, feelings of isolation, and even depressive states. At the same time, the older generation, which actively uses social networks and messengers, also runs the risk of falling into the trap of "digital loneliness", replacing the depth of real connections with superficial online communication," she explained.

According to her, in order to combat the uncontrolled use of gadgets, it is necessary to limit screen time for children, replacing it with joint games, sports, and creativity. The parent will need to engage in joint activities with the child himself.

"Teach your child to recognize emotions — his own and those around him — through personal example and discussion of feelings. And here the "I-message" and the ability to negotiate come to our aid. It's so simple and so difficult to say, "I'm sad when I hear rejection from you, let's go do it together now," Bulgakova said.

She also suggested creating "technological pauses", for example, at dinner or on a walk, when the use of gadgets is prohibited.

Speaking about adults, she noted that they should conduct "digital detoxes": allocate time without social networks and notifications. It is also necessary to restore the culture of live communication: meetings with friends, family rituals without gadgets.

"Work on mindfulness: ask yourself the question "Why am I picking up my phone now?" — it helps to interrupt automatism," the expert advised.

She clarified that it is necessary to fight not with technology, but with their uncontrolled consumption. A balance between the online and offline world is the best way to prevent any negative consequences.

"Adults, modeling a healthy attitude towards gadgets, become an example for children. Remember: a human connection is not Wi—Fi, it requires presence, gaze, intonation, hugs. And it cannot be replaced," Bulgakova concluded.

Earlier, on March 25, it was reported that the majority of parents surveyed (65%) limit screen time to children. So, 67% explain this by the desire for children to relax without gadgets: for example, they read paper books and played regular, non-online games. At the same time, 60% are worried about their eyesight, 55% are afraid that digital addiction will arise, and 30% are worried about security. This is stated in the results of the Kaspersky Lab study.