Avoid Total Ban on Social Media for Teenagers, Psychologist Introduces KREASI Method

Banning teenagers from using social media entirely is considered an ineffective solution and risks provoking resistance. Clinical Psychologist and University of Indonesia graduate, Teresa Indira Andani, S.Psi., M.Psi., states that a rigid approach can trigger a psychological condition known as psychological reactance. “In developmental psychology, teenagers are in a phase of increasing autonomy needs. When rules feel too rigid, psychological reactance can emerge, which is the urge to resist restrictions,” said the psychologist, familiarly known as Tesya, quoted on Saturday (21/3). According to Tesya, a total ban without room for dialogue can make teenagers feel distrusted, strain relationships with parents, and lead to secret social media use. Rather than banning, Tesya suggests that parents prioritise accompaniment and mutual agreements, such as setting usage durations or establishing gadget-free zones at home. “The goal is not just to limit from the outside, but to help the child learn to manage themselves. Self-control needs to be trained, not forced,” she emphasised. She added that involving teenagers in decision-making will make them more cooperative and responsible. To naturally reduce dependency on social media, Tesya emphasises the importance of providing alternative activities that meet teenagers’ psychological needs, such as social connections, self-expression, and a sense of competence. She summarises these alternatives in the acronym KREASI: K (Community): Directing teenagers to face-to-face interactions through sports clubs, arts communities, or organisations. R (Creative Space): Writing, drawing, or making music as means of self-expression without always needing to publish them. E (Interest Exploration): Trying new skills like cooking, photography, or coding. A (Physical Activity): Regular exercise to help regulate emotions and maintain mental health. S (Offline Socialisation): Face-to-face interactions with peers to train empathy. I (Family Interaction): Strengthening relationships through casual discussions or family projects together. “If children feel connected, capable, and have space to express themselves in the real world, the urge to seek validation on social media tends to decrease,” Tesya concluded.