Impact of technology on adolescents: It is all about control

By Ralph Miranda
College of Education
Long Island University, C. W. Post
March, 2011

I really enjoyed yesterday’s debate on whether technology was positively or negatively impacting adolescents. Even thought I was on the positive side of the debate I could have gone either way on this controversial issue. I recognize that with the new technologies there is a greater chance that adolescents will become distracted and want to use said technologies, but new technology itself is not to blame for an adolescent’s inattention.

The basis of our argument was that when technology is used appropriately it is a very beneficial ally; anyone who uses some form of technology recognizes how beneficial it is. As part of their maturing process, adolescents push limits. It’s not a secret, hence why it is important for parents/guardians to monitor and limit their child’s exposure to technological devices. The negative team countered this argument saying that parents are busy enough and they can’t be bothered to watch their child when they are on the computer. In my view, a parent who isn’t willing to monitor their child while they are surfing the web or playing a video game should do one of two things: they should either not have a child, or they shouldn’t allow their child to use computers and video games.

Even though this sounds extreme I don’t think I feel like it’s the only solution, because if adolescents aren’t monitored they can and will become addicted. But to blame technology for poor adolescent behavior is like someone blaming a donut shop for being obese. The bottom line with this issue is that it’s about control, monitoring, and regulation; anything in moderation is acceptable.