It's not a secret that universal computerization of all spheres of life has positive sides besides negative sides, one of which is computer dependence in children. In particular, the unformed personality of children and adolescents is subject to this predilection. The virtual world so captivates them that the world around it becomes simply uninteresting.
The causes of the emergence of computer addiction in children
In general, the addiction to "iron" is the result of:
- lack of warm trust, understanding in the family;
- inability to get along with others, lack of friends;
- no hobbies, hobbies, not related to the computer.
The child sees in the virtual world some kind of vent, in it he self-fulfills, abstracts from real problems and ... gets stuck there. Separate several types of computer dependence. With Internet addiction, children have a desire to stay and chat in chat rooms, social networks, download music all their free time. However, the game addiction in children is more developed, which replaces the real reality: the child lives by the rules of the game, its special effects and sound accompaniment. With the computer game dependency, the student sees the world through the eyes of the hero of his favorite game, he identifies it with himself. Later the teenager plays with live people according to the rules of virtual games, where impunity and permissiveness reign.
Signs of computer addiction in children
To suspect such psychological problems in your child can be on the following grounds:
- Loss of interest in the surrounding world, in people, self-containedness.
- The loss of control over time spent on the network.
- Irritability, anger and aggression when you prohibit a computer.
- Attacks of anxiety, restless sleep.
- Neglect to study, home affairs, sleep and personal hygiene.
How to deal with computer addiction in children?
If a child has such a predilection, in no case should psychological pressure be applied, which will only exacerbate the situation. Be sure to talk with the child, but in a confidential environment. Explain that the computer can only spend a certain amount of time and set a limit. Try to get close to the child, solve his problems, overcome his loneliness. Spend more time together in nature, just on a walk or entertainment center. Write the child in the children's sports section . If all measures do not have an effect, contact a child psychologist. With computer dependency, treatment involves psychotherapy with learning to control immersion in the network, normalizing relations in the family and establishing communication skills with peers.
Prevention of computer addiction in children is:
- creating a warm relationship with their own child;
- in a joint pastime and interest in his life and leisure;
- limiting the time spent in front of the computer;
- infatuation with sports, books, art.