What are we not talking about in the children and telephone debate?| Countercurrents

With anxiety and depression on the rise among today’s youth, many conversations revolve around the influence of phones and social media. But many clinical psychologists who specialize in family relationships are often struck by a key element that is often missing from this discussion: boundaries. Our Generation Z and our children, in particular, naturally test boundaries when learning about the world. However, these days it is becoming increasingly difficult for parents to maintain the boundaries that are essential to their children’s mental health. The cost of not setting these limits has never been higher. In this article, we’ll talk about how this seemingly overlooked crisis is falling behind smartphones and social media. Let’s take a look:

Robust leadership

“Sturdy Leadership” is a parenting model in which boundaries are enforced alongside real bonds. Rather than simply giving in to a child’s immediate desires, Sturdy Leadership is about validating a child’s feelings while holding on to what is best. Just as effective leaders in the workplace or in sports remain committed to core values ​​while demonstrating empathy, parents can lead their families with the same strength and compassion.

Strong leadership in action

The big question is how strong leadership actually works, especially as we address the issue of mental health for our future generations. Imagine a five-year-old asking for a toy at the store when you expected that outing was just to buy a gift. Instead of giving in, Sturdy Leadership would look like this: “I know it’s hard to see toys you want and not get any. But today we’re just buying a gift for your cousin. Let’s take a photo so we can remember it later. I love you and we will get through this.” For an older child, say a 12-year-old who is upset about not being allowed to sleep over, Sturdy Leadership might sound like this: “One of my main responsibilities is to make decisions meet that I think is good for you, even if you do.” You’re mad at me. I understand that you’re upset, you really are.” Here, the parent validates the child’s feelings while maintaining a boundary.

Why setting boundaries is more important now

The stakes in not setting boundaries with children have never been higher. In the past, when parents had a hard time maintaining boundaries, it could result in the child enjoying an extra cupcake or staying out a little longer. Today, however, the cost can look like unlimited access to TikTok at age eight or endless hours of gaming, which hinders engagement in the real world. While experts agree that we are facing a crisis, I see it as more than just a problem of phones and social media; It is a crisis of what I call “strong leadership” – something our children need now more than ever. This is where boundaries come into play. Boundaries provide a foundation for how children respond to major decisions, such as requests for a phone or social media. Rather than relying on strict “media policy,” setting boundaries becomes a natural extension of how parents have always guided their children’s choices.

It’s never too late to start

If you’ve already given your child a phone or access to social media, all is not lost. Think of yourself as the pilot of your family’s journey; Even when turbulence occurs, you always have the opportunity to reset boundaries. Start small, perhaps by making a new rule that all phones stay out of the bedroom at night. Frame it as a step toward well-being, not a punishment, and embody your authority with warmth and protection. The whole idea is to help parents raise strong children. Here the idea is presented only with the mission of empowering parents to become confident, resilient leaders who raise resilient children. Phones and social media are just one part of the larger conversation about mental health. By equipping parents with practical skills, we can transform worry into confident action and create an environment in which our children can truly thrive.

The final thought

With mental health challenges on the rise, boundaries have become essential parenting tools, guiding children through a world full of distractions and challenges. By embracing “Sturdy Leadership,” parents can provide children the structure and connection they need to thrive, balancing empathy with firmness to promote resilience and self-discipline. It’s never too late to set boundaries that promote wellness, even if that means rethinking the current rules around technology. By consciously setting boundaries, parents empower their children not only to navigate the world but also to thrive, creating a foundation for a healthier, more balanced future.

Mohd Ziyauallah Khan lives in Nagpur and is a freelance writer and editor. He is also an activist and social entrepreneur and enjoys experimenting with special and exclusive programs for young people under the motto “Young Transformers”.