The youth in the UAE are concerned about the impact of electronic devices on their families. In a recent interview with Khaleej Times, young people discussed how technology is changing family dynamics in today’s society. Ahmed AlBreiki, a 19-year-old Emirati, mentioned that technology has not been the best at uniting families, as individuals often spend more time on their phones than interacting with each other. Despite this challenge, he is optimistic that Emirati society can navigate through these changes.
According to a global survey, 60 percent of parents feel that the amount of time children spend using technology is affecting their time spent with family and friends. This sentiment is not exclusive to the UAE, as similar concerns have been raised in different parts of the world. In the US, a recent bill in Florida restricts social media use for children under 14 years old, sparking discussions among experts in the UAE about the role of technology in raising kids.
For Aysha AlKaabi, a 20-year-old, technology is a significant concern when it comes to raising children. She highlighted the generational differences in parenting styles and expressed uncertainty about how children will cope with modern societal transformations. AlKaabi raised the question of how much exposure to technology is appropriate for young children and emphasized the need to prepare them for integration into society.
High school students Falah AlNahdi, Yousef AlNaqbi, and Omar AlHashmi believe that developing characters and making a positive impact on themselves and their families should be a priority for young people. While they acknowledge the benefits of technology in bringing people together and shaping the future of society, they also caution against relying too much on technology for family relations. Finding a balance and being cautious about the impact of technology on family dynamics is essential for maintaining healthy relationships.
In conclusion, the concerns about the impact of technology on family dynamics are not unique to the UAE but resonate with parents and youth globally. As society continues to evolve, finding a balance between technological advancements and maintaining strong family bonds is crucial. By addressing these concerns and actively working towards building strong characters and relationships, young people can effectively navigate the challenges posed by technology in today’s society. It is important for individuals to reflect on the role of technology in their lives and take proactive steps to ensure a healthy balance between digital interactions and meaningful connections with family and friends.
