JAKARTA – A leading psychologist from Universitas Gadjah Mada (UGM) has emphasized the critical need for parents to foster open and continuous communication with their children as a primary strategy to prevent the escalating issue of gaming and gadget addiction. Dr. Novi Poespita Candra, speaking on Saturday, February 11, 2023, highlighted that understanding children’s experiences with digital devices is paramount.
"Intensive dialogue with children is essential. What are they gaining from playing games? Are there positive and negative influences they are experiencing on their bodies and their lives?" Dr. Novi stated, underscoring the importance of delving into the perceived impacts of screen time.
The pervasive integration of gadgets and digital games into modern society, particularly among younger generations, presents both opportunities and challenges. Dr. Novi explained that while these tools are often inseparable from children’s lives, establishing clear boundaries is crucial. These boundaries should encompass the duration of use, the selection of age-appropriate content, and the types of games that are deemed suitable for children.
The overarching goal, according to the psychologist, is to cultivate a balanced lifestyle for children, ensuring a healthy equilibrium between their social activities and their engagement with digital entertainment. Furthermore, parents are encouraged to actively train their children to take responsibility for their daily routines and obligations.
"These dialogues and agreements will foster self-awareness and self-management in the appropriate use of gadgets," Dr. Novi elaborated. This proactive approach aims to equip children with the tools to regulate their own behavior rather than relying solely on external controls.
The Neurochemical Basis of Gaming Engagement
Dr. Novi further shed light on the biological mechanisms that contribute to the allure of gaming. She explained that games on mobile devices can trigger the release of "happiness hormones" within the brain, including dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin, and endorphins. These neurochemicals are generally associated with feelings of pleasure and well-being, often experienced after engaging in rewarding activities, with gaming being a potent example.
This neurochemical response can create a natural inclination for individuals, especially children whose brains are still developing, to repeatedly engage in gaming. Consequently, prolonged and excessive gaming can significantly increase the risk of developing addiction.
The Far-Reaching Consequences of Gaming Addiction
The ramifications of unchecked gaming addiction are extensive and can profoundly impact both the mental and physical health of children. Dr. Novi warned that if not recognized or addressed with seriousness, this addiction can lead to a deterioration of mental well-being. Symptoms may include a diminished capacity for social interaction, increased stress levels, chronic fatigue, apathy, and a significant reduction in motivation to pursue other activities.
Beyond psychological effects, the physical health of children during their formative years is also at risk. Sedentary behavior associated with prolonged gaming can lead to a lack of physical activity, eye strain, and discomfort or pain in the joints. These physical ailments can have long-term consequences on a child’s overall development and health trajectory.
Alternative Avenues for Happiness Hormones
Crucially, Dr. Novi emphasized that the release of happiness hormones is not exclusive to gaming. "The happiness hormones experienced while playing games can also be triggered by other activities," she stated. The key lies in cultivating internal mechanisms for well-being. "The most important thing is to build self-awareness and self-management," she reiterated. This suggests that parents and educators should focus on guiding children towards a diverse range of enjoyable and enriching activities that promote similar positive neurochemical responses.
Context: The Digital Landscape for Indonesian Youth
The insights provided by Dr. Novi come at a time when digital device penetration and internet access continue to surge across Indonesia. According to data from the Indonesian Internet Service Providers Association (APJII), as of 2022, internet penetration in Indonesia reached approximately 77.02% of the total population, with a significant portion of this usage coming from mobile devices. This widespread access naturally extends to children, who are often early adopters of new technologies.
The COVID-19 pandemic, which necessitated a shift to online learning and increased reliance on digital platforms for entertainment and social connection, further accelerated the integration of gadgets into the daily lives of children. While these tools offered vital connections during periods of isolation, they also inadvertently created fertile ground for the development of unhealthy usage patterns. Reports from various child protection organizations in Indonesia have indicated a rise in concerns regarding screen time and its potential negative impacts on children’s development during and after the pandemic.
Expert Recommendations and Parental Strategies
Dr. Novi’s advice aligns with broader recommendations from child development experts globally. The concept of "digital citizenship" – equipping children with the skills and knowledge to navigate the digital world responsibly – is gaining traction. This includes teaching critical thinking about online content, understanding privacy settings, and recognizing the signs of unhealthy digital habits.
Proactive Parental Engagement:
- Establish Clear Rules and Boundaries: Parents should work collaboratively with their children to set specific times for gaming and gadget use. These rules should be consistently enforced.
- Content Moderation: Regularly monitor the games and apps children are using. Ensure they are age-appropriate and free from violent or inappropriate content.
- Encourage Alternative Activities: Promote a balanced lifestyle by encouraging participation in sports, hobbies, reading, outdoor play, and face-to-face social interactions.
- Lead by Example: Parents’ own digital habits significantly influence their children. Demonstrating responsible gadget use is crucial.
- Create Tech-Free Zones and Times: Designate certain areas of the home (e.g., bedrooms) or specific times (e.g., during meals) as gadget-free.
- Educate About Risks: Discuss the potential dangers of excessive screen time and online interactions in an age-appropriate manner.
The Role of Educational Institutions
While the primary responsibility for managing children’s gadget use lies with parents, educational institutions also play a supportive role. Schools can integrate digital literacy and responsible technology use into their curriculum. Furthermore, they can serve as a platform for raising awareness among both students and parents about the challenges of digital addiction. Discussions during parent-teacher meetings or dedicated workshops could address these concerns.
Broader Societal Implications
The rise of digital addiction among children is not merely a family concern; it carries broader societal implications. A generation struggling with social skills, prone to mental health issues, and lacking motivation for real-world pursuits could impact future workforce productivity, social cohesion, and overall community well-being. Investing in early intervention and preventative measures is therefore a crucial step towards safeguarding the future of Indonesian youth.
Dr. Novi’s call for open dialogue serves as a vital reminder that technology, while a powerful tool, requires mindful and balanced integration into the lives of children. By fostering understanding, setting boundaries, and promoting a diverse range of enriching activities, parents can help their children navigate the digital world safely and develop into well-rounded individuals. The ongoing dialogue initiated by experts like Dr. Novi is essential in equipping families with the knowledge and strategies needed to address this evolving challenge.
