When you take a child's phone away, scrolling continues in their mind for months, says therapist

Even after a child is separated from their mobile phone, the habit of scrolling can linger in their mind for months, according to child psychiatrist and psychotherapist Peter Pöthe. He explains that adolescence is a challenging phase for both children and parents, highlighting the need to gradually let children navigate this period. Pöthe points out how technology is fundamentally changing the world of young people.

He stresses the importance of relearning the value of ordinary boredom. In today's digital age, constant stimulation from devices can hinder a child's ability to cope with inactivity. This can lead to difficulties in focusing and engaging with the real world when not digitally occupied. Pöthe's insights suggest that parents play a critical role in helping their children develop healthy digital habits and coping mechanisms for life beyond the screen.

The therapist's observations underscore the profound impact of smartphones and constant connectivity on adolescent development. The persistent mental engagement with scrolling, even without the physical device, indicates a deep-seated behavioral pattern that requires time and conscious effort to overcome. This highlights a growing concern among mental health professionals about the long-term effects of excessive screen time on young minds.