It is no longer a secret. Digital devices are designed to be addictive. That should be an automatic red flag when it comes to anything our children handle and interact with. Not only does this mean that it is important we monitor their use, but that we also must think about alternatives.
But how can you offer a good alternative when gadgets are all your child seems to want?
It's time to get to know brain chemistry a little better! If you know how the gadgets are tricking you and your child, then you can actually be more intentional about getting what you need in healthy ways. Electronic devices are tricking the brain to believe you have everything you need inside the screen, which is what creates dependency. They automatically activate brain centers that release “happy chemicals” and make us believe we can’t get that goodness anywhere else.
But that is not true.
The same neurotransmitters and reward centers in the brain are activated when we get what we need from real life experiences. Choosing real life experiences over artificial ones can save your child from a future digital addiction.
The neurotransmitters of wellbeing are: dopamine, serotonin, oxytocin, and endorphin. I walk you through what triggers each one of them and discuss the natural ways we can get them through real life experiences. Have a listen!
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Podcast Host: Julia Pappas, Psychologist & Parent Coach
With questions and comments, please reach out on Instagram @theparentingpresence. Additional info is available at theparentingpresence.com