Summary
Introduction:
As the influence of digital technology has increased by leaps and bounds, the debate around its impact on the children and youth has become significant.
Fast Facts:
According to The State of the World’s Children 2017: Children in a Digital World,
- Youth (ages 15–24) is the most connected age group. Worldwide, 71% are online compared with 48% of the total population.
- African youth are the least connected. Around 60% are not online, compared with just 4% in Europe
- There is a persistent digital gender gap. Globally, 12% more men than women used the internet in 2017. In India, less than one third of internet users are female.
Positive Impact of Digital Technology:
- Impetus to education and learning outcomes
- Increased Awareness:
- Widened Social Circle.
- Boost to creativity
- Digital activism and Social change:
- Opportunities for economic participation
- Social Inclusion
Negative Impact of Digital Technology:
- Physical Health- Physical inactivity; obesity
- Mental Health: anxiety, depression, aggressive behaviour and other mental health issues.
- Identity crisis (Digiphrenia)
- Poor Academic Outcome
- Poor interpersonal communication
- Content Risks unwelcome and inappropriate content
- Privacy
- Cyber-Bullying
- Online child sexual abuse and exploitation
Way Ahead:
- Policy- adequately deal with children’s rights, privacy and welfare
- Safeguards for inappropriate content and sexual abuse
- Digital Literacy
- Role of private Sector- advancing ethical standards and practices that protect and benefit children and teens online.
- Role of family- enhancing interpersonal communication through better communication, providing emotional support
- Role of Educational Institutions- encourage social cohabitation, provide e-safety curriculum,
- Role of Society-community programs, initiatives and activities.
