The process of accompanying a child from its birth to its growth and development towards adulthood, that is, parenting, is undoubtedly one of the aspects that give the most talk among parents. And it is something that has been evolving and changing according to the new times. Conscious upbringing, coparenting, the natural, there are various types among which parents feel more or less represented. However, what is sought is to find the best method, a positive and beneficial one. This is not the case with a trend that has been spreading in recent years, the so-called distracted parenting.
This form of parenting is done unconsciously and occurs relatively frequently. Unfortunately, despite the risks and dangers it entails for children, who are exposed to the passivity of their parents. Since what usually happens is that these tend to be underestimated.
Distracted parenting occurs when parents don't pay enough attention to their children and instead focus on their electronic devices, such as smartphones. It is important to clarify that these are not sporadic or specific cases, but behavior that becomes habitual. These parents remain immersed in their mobile screens and even go so far as to reproach or scold their children if they try to get them out of this self-absorption.
This can cause various damages to minors. On the one hand, from an emotional and psychological point of view, since they will not feel that they represent an important part of their parents' lives. But they are in the background. Distracted parenting can lead to problems of frustration, low self-esteem and other more complex disorders that could haunt them into adulthood.
In addition, remaining in this state of distraction also means that children are exposed to dangers and risks of all kinds due to the lack of attention from their parents.
Addiction to new technologies is a reality that many people suffer from, a circumstance that must be remedied in order to offer children responsible and active upbringing. Therefore, it is recommended to go to therapy if necessary.
Other measures that can be taken individually to avoid distracted parenting is, for example, the imposition of limits. That is to say, determine a specific time and moments in which to use electronic devices, avoiding that they coincide during the time in which parents and children spend time together.
Entertainment through technology can be replaced by another series of activities, with traditional toys, games, sports or other entertainment that can be done outdoors. The most important thing is that parents and children can connect, communicate and enrich their emotional bond.
