Summary

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,

  1. Youth (ages 15–24) is the most connected age group. Worldwide, 71% are online compared with 48% of the total population.
  2. African youth are the least connected. Around 60% are not online, compared with just 4% in Europe
  3. 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:

  1. Impetus to education and learning outcomes
  2. Increased Awareness:
  3. Widened Social Circle.
  4. Boost to creativity
  5. Digital activism and Social change:
  6. Opportunities for economic participation
  7. Social Inclusion

Negative Impact of Digital Technology:

  1. Physical Health- Physical inactivity; obesity
  2. Mental Health: anxiety, depression, aggressive behaviour and other mental health issues.
  3. Identity crisis (Digiphrenia)
  4. Poor Academic Outcome
  5. Poor interpersonal communication
  6. Content Risks unwelcome and inappropriate content
  7. Privacy
  8. Cyber-Bullying
  9. Online child sexual abuse and exploitation

Way Ahead:

  1. Policy- adequately deal with children’s rights, privacy and welfare
  2. Safeguards for inappropriate content and sexual abuse
  3. Digital Literacy
  4. Role of private Sector- advancing ethical standards and practices that protect and benefit children and teens online.
  5. Role of family- enhancing interpersonal communication through better communication, providing emotional support
  6. Role of Educational Institutions- encourage social cohabitation, provide e-safety curriculum,
  7. Role of Society-community programs, initiatives and activities.
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