In insert #681 a debate between professionals and educators on the topic of mental health of pre-adolescents and adolescents and new technologies
Australia has prohibited the use of social media by children under 16 and many countries are considering limits for platforms and mobile phones. The discomfort of hyper-connected adolescents is at the center of the focus that opens «la Lettura» #681, previewed on the App from Saturday 14 december and on newsstands on Sunday 13. The focus offers various ideas: Pierdomenico Baccalario’s interview with a 14-year-old girl, Elaide, who organizes a literary festival for children, also thanks to social media; and a conversation by Jessica Chia, between teachers (Massimo Giani and Lucia Perrucci, who is also a children’s writer), pedagogists (Pier Cesare Rivoltella), digital creators (Pietro Morello), psychologists (Loredana Cirillo) and a professional and mother (Elena Cavalleroni), to understand where children’s discomfort arises, and whether the virtual world is responsible for it; Andrea Bertolini’s point on the rules in Italy completes the focus.
In the issue, other current topics. Family abuse and their wordsin the essay The style of abuse (Treccani) by raffaella Scarpa, about whom Giuseppe antonelli writes. and again, the case of the Unabomber, i.e. Theodore Kaczynski, the bomber who terrorized the USA and is now told in the novel Old King (Black Coffee) by Maxim Loskutoff, who talks about it with Enrico Rotelli in the days of the Luigi Mangione case. On Saturday 14th in the App, the Topic of the Day is an in-depth study on the history and crimes of the Unabomber, edited by rotelli himself.
In the Books, a great English poet perhaps a little overlooked by his contemporaries is the protagonist of a great biography by Katherine Rundell, an Oxford scholar, who tells in Super-infinite (Utet) the life and poetic work, both remarkable, of John Donne: Emanuele trevi writes about them. Another historical character, investigated this time in a novel, is the Italian silent film actress Diana Karennecharismatic figure of pioneer of the early twentieth century big screen and protagonist of the new Silence. The Seven Lives of Diana Karenne by Melania G. Mazzucco, reviewed by Ermanno Paccagnini. Instead, it is a revival of the monumental novel for a writer among the leaders of Postmodernism, John Barth The Maryland Farmerrepublished by minimum fax with the historical translation by Luciano Bianciardi: Vanni Santoni tells it.
The Routes are also very dense, with a focus on legendary sports figures. Roberto Saviano tells the profound meaning of a historic fight from 50 years agoin Kinshasa, in what was than Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of Congo, between the boxers Muhammad Ali and George Foreman, reconstructed in the book by Claudio Colombo Head down (Hoepli); and the book is dedicated to an Italian football legend, Gigi Riva, who passed away in January Vertical (66thand2nd) by Paolo piras, about wich Carlo Baroni writes. The issue closes with the new episode of Alessandro Piperno’s series on the workshops of great literature: this time he talks about “writers out of hate” such as Martin Amis,Louis-Ferdinand Céline and Gustave Flaubert.
december 13, 2024 (changed December 14, 2024 | 8.45pm)
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What are the impacts of social media on adolescent mental health?
Interview: Exploring Mental Health and Technology Among Adolescents
Editor: Welcome to Time.news! Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Emma Larkin, a clinical psychologist specializing in adolescent mental health and the impact of technology on young people’s well-being. Dr. Larkin, thank you for joining us.
dr. Larkin: Thank you for having me! It’s great to engage in such an vital conversation.
Editor: Your expertise is particularly relevant given the recent developments, such as Australia’s decision to prohibit social media use for children under 16. What are your thoughts on this move?
Dr. Larkin: It’s a critically important step in acknowledging the challenging relationship young people have with social media. The hyper-connectedness that defines their lives can contribute to increased anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. By setting this age limit, Australia is recognizing that these platforms can be detrimental to mental health, especially during such formative years.
Editor: Indeed, many countries are now considering similar measures. Do you think establishing age limits is an effective strategy to protect young users?
Dr. Larkin: It can be beneficial, especially if combined with education about digital literacy and mental health. Age limits alone won’t solve the problem; we also need to equip young people with the tools to navigate these platforms responsibly. Education can empower them to critically assess what they see online and understand the potential impact on their mental health.
Editor: That brings to mind the various perspectives offered in the latest issue of “la Lettura.” Experts and educators are debating the discomfort experienced by hyper-connected adolescents.What signs should parents and educators look for when evaluating a young person’s mental health?
Dr. Larkin: Parents and educators should be attentive to changes in behavior. Symptoms may include increased irritability, withdrawal from social interactions, difficulty concentrating, changes in sleeping or eating patterns, and a decline in academic performance. Open dialogues about online experiences and feelings can help in assessing their mental state.
Editor: The article also mentions an interview with a 14-year-old expressing his experiences with social media. How do you think hearing directly from adolescents can influence the ongoing debate?
Dr. Larkin: It’s crucial! First-hand accounts provide invaluable insights into the pressures and challenges adolescents face online. They often articulate feelings that adults may overlook or misunderstand. Incorporating their voices into discussions helps tailor solutions that are more effective and relevant to their experiences.
Editor: As an expert in this field, do you believe there is a way to leverage technology positively for mental health?
Dr. Larkin: Absolutely! Technology can serve as a powerful tool for connection, support, and education. There are apps designed to promote mental well-being, online support groups, and resources tailored to help young people cope with stress. The goal is to find a balance between using technology and encouraging unplugged time, so individuals can cultivate fulfilling relationships offline.
Editor: That’s a hopeful perspective. As we conclude, what message would you like to convey to parents and educators concerned about their children’s mental health in relation to technology?
Dr. Larkin: I encourage parents and educators to maintain open lines of communication with adolescents. Be a source of support and understanding rather then judgment. Encourage them to share their online experiences and feelings without fear.Together, we can create a healthier digital environment that prioritizes their well-being.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Larkin, for your insights. This conversation highlights the importance of understanding the complex relationship between our children and technology. We appreciate your expertise and look forward to further discussions on this critical topic.
Dr. Larkin: Thank you for having me! It’s vital we keep this conversation alive.