Psychologists: Parents Must Set an Example in Reducing Device Usage

Jakarta — Child psychologist Professor Dr. Rose Mini Agoes Salim, M.Psi., has stressed the importance of parents setting an example for their children by reducing their own device usage whilst at home.

Speaking with ANTARA on Friday, she emphasised that rules restricting children’s access to digital platforms cannot be implemented effectively without active parental involvement.

According to Professor Salim, children learn from what they observe daily. If parents ask their children to reduce mobile phone usage whilst remaining occupied with their own devices at home, children will receive contradictory messages.

“Parents are examples for their children. Don’t ask children not to use gadgets much if the parents themselves cannot put down their phones,” she said.

If parents continue using their phones whilst at home, including when spending time with family, children may feel they lack access to speak or interact with their parents.

“When parents are at home but their time is taken by their phones, when is there time for the children?” she asked.

According to Professor Salim, children who struggle to speak and interact with their parents will choose to retreat into their own world through their devices.

Parents need to exercise self-control to become examples for their children in limiting device usage and should attempt to introduce alternative engaging activities to help children adjust to restricted access to digital platforms.

Professor Salim noted that restricting access to electronic devices and digital platforms can cause confusion or resistance if children are not offered alternative activities.

She recommended that parents actively involve their children in joint activities such as sports or completing simple projects together, to build communication whilst helping children adjust to restrictions.

“Regulation helps parents. But guidance still comes from parents. They must be creative and consistent,” she said.

According to her, active parental involvement in implementing rules restricting children’s access to digital platforms will prevent excessive device and digital platform usage, which can harm children’s physical and mental health.