The impact of media and digital technology on children and adolescents

1 min. readlast update: 10.17.2023

Social media is an interesting topic in Psychiatry and Mental health in general. Our College of Psychiatrists - RANZCP (Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists) issued a separate statement on this important subject.

Key messages

  • Exposure, to and appropriate media use in children and young people, has many positive benefits.
  • Several issues concerning the problematic impact of media have been identified, including Problems with Internet Use and cyberbullying.
  • Clinicians should be aware that problematic use of media, where it leads to significant social isolation and withdrawal, can adversely impact 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.

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You can read this statement in full: 

https://www.ranzcp.org/clinical-guidelines-publications/clinical-guidelines-publications-library/the-impact-of-media-and-digital-technology-on-children-and-adolescents  

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