Parenting Archives - Plugged In https://www.pluggedin.com/category/parenting/ Shining a Light on the World of Popular Entertainment Fri, 07 Mar 2025 22:07:11 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 https://www.pluggedin.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/plugged-in-menu-icon-updated-96x96.png Parenting Archives - Plugged In https://www.pluggedin.com/category/parenting/ 32 32 On the Radar: The ‘Blackout Challenge,’ Terrible Teen Habits and Teenage Deepfake Victims https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-the-blackout-challenge-terrible-teen-habits-and-teenage-deepfake-victims/ https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-the-blackout-challenge-terrible-teen-habits-and-teenage-deepfake-victims/#respond Sat, 08 Mar 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=34193 Parents Worldwide Sue TikTok for Fatal ‘Blackout Challenge’ What? The “blackout challenge” (also known as the “choking game/challenge,” the “fainting game” and “Space Monkeys”) involves participants intentionally asphyxiating themselves until they pass out, with the intent of inducing a sense of euphoria. So What? The online challenge first went viral on TikTok in 2021 (even […]

The post On the Radar: The ‘Blackout Challenge,’ Terrible Teen Habits and Teenage Deepfake Victims appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
Parents Worldwide Sue TikTok for Fatal ‘Blackout Challenge’

What? The “blackout challenge” (also known as the “choking game/challenge,” the “fainting game” and “Space Monkeys”) involves participants intentionally asphyxiating themselves until they pass out, with the intent of inducing a sense of euphoria.

So What? The online challenge first went viral on TikTok in 2021 (even though it’s allegedly been blocked since 2020). And unfortunately, it’s gaining popularity once again. Parents from the United States and Great Britain are suing TikTok after their children (six victims between the ages of 8 and 14) died as a result of the challenge, which they saw on the social media platform.

Now What? It’s not easy to talk about the dangers of online challenges with our kids. Older teens might get a scoff or give you an eyeroll in response. And with younger tweens, you may wonder if they’re even old enough to have this discussion yet. Unfortunately, kids are gaining access to social media younger than ever. And, lacking discernment skills that their older siblings might possess, they’re more liable to try dangerous social media stunts in the hope of gaining internet fame. So talk to your kids about what is happening to their peers.

The CDC Says Teen Girls Aren’t Getting Enough Nutrients, Exercise or Sleep

What? According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s most recent “Youth Risk Behavior Survey,” teenagers are not getting enough nutrients, exercise or sleep, with teen girls getting even less than their male classmates.

So What? The survey states that just 1 in 4 teens are eating breakfast daily, being physically active for at least 60 minutes daily and getting at least eight hours of sleep each night.

Now What? If physical and mental health are priorities for your teenager (which recent studies highlight as priorities for teens) then you should remind him or her how important it is to engage in healthy behaviors regarding food, exercise and sleep. The CDC survey recommends that teens exercise, sleep, and eat fruit and vegetables daily—and not to skip breakfast.

One in 17 Teens Have Been the Target of Explicit Deepfakes

What? A new study conducted by Thorn, a research center that builds products and resources to help stop the spread of child sexual abuse material, found that 1 in 8 teens personally know someone who has been the victim of explicit deepfake imagery, with 1 in 17 being a victim themselves.

So What? Despite pushes to make deepfakes illegal and safeguards on AI image generators to prevent this abuse, 2% of young people reported they have created explicit deepfake images of someone else, with 70% of those creators using apps downloaded through their device’s app store.

Now What? Although these images aren’t real, we need to emphasize to our sons and daughters how damaging they can still be. Explicit deepfakes can exact an emotional and psychological toll on the person depicted and even damage the victim’s reputation. Additionally, we need to empower our teens to take action if they become victims themselves. Although the majority of surveyed teens said they would tell a trusted family member or even report the abuse to police or the platform the content was shared on, the study found that among actual victims, less than half told their parents, and only 1 in 3 reported it to police or the platforms. And although 9 in 10 teens said they would not ignore such content, 1 in 5 real victims did just that.

The post On the Radar: The ‘Blackout Challenge,’ Terrible Teen Habits and Teenage Deepfake Victims appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-the-blackout-challenge-terrible-teen-habits-and-teenage-deepfake-victims/feed/ 0
Screen Fast 2025 Starts Today! https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/screen-fast-2025-starts-today/ https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/screen-fast-2025-starts-today/#respond Fri, 07 Mar 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=34179 Join us for Plugged In’s Screen Fast 2025, which officially kicks off today!

The post Screen Fast 2025 Starts Today! appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
Are you looking to spend less time on your screens and more time on what really matters? Does your family need a reset of their technology habits? Would you like to experience such benefits as better brain health, improved interactions with loved ones and enriched happiness and peace within your family?

Then join us for Plugged In’s Screen Fast 2025, which officially kicks off today! It’s a great opportunity for you and your family to start building healthier tech and entertainment habits.

If you haven’t signed up, it’s not too late! When you register, you’ll gain access to free, exclusive content designed to help replace that screentime with fun activities that will also bring you closer to God and your loved ones.

If you’re interested in getting a little preview of what fasting from screens is like, you can check out the video below, where Paul and I discuss our own screen fasts, including the challenges and some tips on making your screen fast a rousing success!

Sign up now!

The post Screen Fast 2025 Starts Today! appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/screen-fast-2025-starts-today/feed/ 0
On the Radar: ‘Door Knock Challenge,’ NarcTok and New Apple Parental Control Features https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-door-knock-challenge-narctok-and-new-apple-parental-control-features/ https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-door-knock-challenge-narctok-and-new-apple-parental-control-features/#comments Sat, 01 Mar 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=34137 What are the dangers of the viral ‘Door Knock Challenge?’ Are your teens being influenced by NarcTok on TikTok? What do Apple’s latest parental control features offer?

The post On the Radar: ‘Door Knock Challenge,’ NarcTok and New Apple Parental Control Features appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
Viral ‘Door Knock Challenge’ Is Upsetting and Even Dangerous

What? According to several news sources, social media influencers are kicking, knocking and banging on the doors of random residences (sometimes in the middle of the night), then running away while filming the reactions in the “Door Knock Challenge.” Essentially, it’s a more aggressive version of the old “Ding-dong ditch” game, only now with combined with a social media component.

So What? In some cases, homeowners are reporting damaged property as a result of kicking. But authorities are also urging participants to end this prank, since startled residents—especially in states with strong self-defense laws—could respond with force, endangering the homeowner and prankster alike.

Now What? At best, the “Door Knock Challenge” is irritating. At worst, it could be life-threatening. But even the middle ground—scaring the wits out of someone—could still be extremely distressing. So talk to your teens about this prank, informing them of the potential dangers, both to themselves and to the people they’re pranking. But you should also instruct them on what to do if they hear someone kicking a door. It might be a friend pranking them, but it could also be an intruder, and your teen should be equipped to handle either situation.

NarcTok Could Be Giving Teens False Perceptions of Narcissistic Parents

What? According to Parents, NarcTok is a hybrid term that blends ‘narcissistic’ and ‘TikTok.” And the topic is trending due to teens and young adults “sharing personal experiences and opinions about narcissistic behavior, sometimes in a sensationalized or misinformed manner.”

So What? Narcissistic personality disorder (NPD), which is the focal point of these discussions, only affects about 5% of the general population. But thanks to the popularity of NarcTok, many teens have developed misconceptions about narcissism and are accusing their parents of these behaviors through online platforms.

Now What? If you discover your teen has posted a NarcTok video, experts urge that “discovery is not disaster.” Take a pause, they say, and address your own reactive feelings before talking to your child. Then, lead with empathy: “There is a reason that teens choose to vent on this platform, and it’s important to go into a dialogue without showing anger or judgement.” After that, listen to what your teen has to say, validating their emotions without offering immediate corrections. And when you do respond, be sure “to share accurate information about NPD and the importance of understanding mental health.” Any person’s occasional self-focused behavior does not equate to having NPD, and teens should be mindful of how their words affect both those they accuse (since it can be hurtful) and those who listen, since it spreads more misconceptions about the disorder.

New Apple Parental Controls Will Allow Parents to Set Kids’ Ages

What? According to Digital Trends, Apple has released a new white paper, detailing changes the company plans to make to the parental control system on its devices. These new features will make it easier for parents to set up child accounts and enable automatic age-restrictions for apps and ads. They also include more robust screentime controls.

So What? The age information will be kept private, but “once they are in place, apps will automatically default to showing age-appropriate content.” Additionally, Apple will be expanding its available age ranges so parents can select a range more suitable for their children.

Now What? These features haven’t been implemented just yet. But once they are introduced, it could be an opportunity to revisit and reset the parental controls on your kids’ Apple devices. Taking the time to set up these parental controls could help protect your child from harmful content or the negative consequences of excessive screentime use. And talk to your kids about the new boundaries that will be in place, explaining how these features are meant to protect them, not limit them.

The post On the Radar: ‘Door Knock Challenge,’ NarcTok and New Apple Parental Control Features appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-door-knock-challenge-narctok-and-new-apple-parental-control-features/feed/ 3
On the Radar: Fine Motor Skills, ‘Chuzz’ and the ‘Nocebo Effect’ https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-fine-motor-skills-chuzz-and-the-nocebo-effect/ https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-fine-motor-skills-chuzz-and-the-nocebo-effect/#comments Sat, 22 Feb 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=34056 Screens are affecting kids’ developing fine motor skills. “Chuzz” is yet another way to insult women and teen girls online. Has your teen fallen victim to the “nocebo effect?”

The post On the Radar: Fine Motor Skills, ‘Chuzz’ and the ‘Nocebo Effect’ appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
Experts Say Screens Could Be Affecting iPad Kids’ Fine Motor Skills

What? According to National Geographic, a recent survey by Education Week found that 77% of educators reported younger students “having greater difficulties handling pencils, pens and scissors.” Additionally, 69% noted “increased struggles with tying shoes compared to five years ago.”

So What? Experts point to screens as one of the culprits for this loss in fine motor skills: “While learning math or creating digital art can be educational, it doesn’t develop the fine motor control that comes from writing, cutting or coloring.”

Now What? Look for opportunities to challenge your kids and insert fine motor activities into daily tasks, experts say. “Cut coupons or cook together, look for stones on the way to school, pour cups and squeeze sponges in the bath.” Push for non-screen activities, such as playing outside and reading. (Turning pages of a book is considered a fine motor skill. But reading also helps kids learn to focus and follow instructions, skills that are crucial to other fine motor skills, such as zipping a coat or tying a shoelace.) And finally, do these activities before the TV comes on or the tablet comes out. Experts suggest you’ll get far less resistance if you don’t first have to turn off your child’s screen.

Trendy Word ‘Chuzz’ Is Not a Compliment

What? The word “chuzz” is short for “chopped huzz” or “chunky huzz,” reports Indy100. It’s slang to describe women or teen girls as unattractive. But “huzz” is also often used online as a substitute for “hoe” or “whore.”

So What? Many social media platforms allow us to set up filters on our own or our children’s accounts, so they won’t be exposed to inappropriate language or disparaging remarks. But “chuzz” demonstrates how a crude term can start trending, since it doesn’t raise any red flags upon first glance.

Now What? Add “chuzz” and “huzz” to your filters, if you use them. Talk to your teen daughters about how they can respond to being called this or any other disparaging slang term. And, since this term almost exclusively applies to women, talk to your teen sons as well, making sure they know how deeply these remarks can hurt their female friends, even when used jokingly.

Social Media Spreads the ‘Nocebo Effect’ Around the World

What? The “nocebo effect” is the opposite of the “placebo effect,” says NewScientist. Instead of experiencing relief of symptoms even though you’ve received a placebo, you’ll experience side effects and negative health symptoms even though you’re not sick.

So What? Where once the nocebo effect was relatively limited to face-to-face interactions or pharmaceutical studies, researchers are now discovering a spread of nocebo responses through social media. (Remember when teens were experiences symptoms of Tourette’s Syndrome after watching TikTok videos of the effects in 2021?) And that’s worrying, since roughly 85% of people have sought health information using social media, according to the National Library of Medicine.

Now What? Anyone can fall victim to the nocebo effect—even the researchers studying it have admitted experiencing nocebo symptoms. But studies suggest that if we are educated about the nocebo effect, we’ll be less likely to experience its symptoms. Additionally, it will lead us (and our vulnerable teens) to be “more conscious about the potential influence of the health information” we are consuming.

The post On the Radar: Fine Motor Skills, ‘Chuzz’ and the ‘Nocebo Effect’ appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-fine-motor-skills-chuzz-and-the-nocebo-effect/feed/ 1
Three Surprising Benefits of a “Screen Fast” https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/three-surprising-benefits-of-a-screen-fast/ Tue, 11 Feb 2025 19:07:03 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=33945 Maybe you’re wondering why a fast from screens would be a good thing to do. Here are three surprising benefits of doing a screen fast …

The post Three Surprising Benefits of a “Screen Fast” appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
How much time do you spend on screens each day?

Screens are a huge part of our lives, factoring in to work, school, communication and entertainment. If you live in America, you almost certainly own a smartphone, ready to ping you with the latest text, news or social media notification, day or night.

At times, our screens can seem inescapable—not that we always want to escape from them. Hey, I get it: I work for Plugged In, which involves watching all sorts of screen-based entertainment, yet when the workday is done, I still often find myself scrolling through my phone or browsing TV at home.

But what if there was a way to take a step back from our personal screens, to instead pour that time back into our relationships with God, family and friends?

Good news! Plugged In is offering just that through Screen Fast 2025! We invite your family to join us as we take a week to unplug from screens and reconnect with our loved ones. You can sign up here!

But maybe you’re wondering why a fast from screens would even be a beneficial thing for families to do. More good news! Here are three easy benefits of doing a screen fast …

Benefit #1: Boost Your Family’s Happiness and Peace

More than 70% of teens say that they feel “happy” or “peaceful” without their phones.

Pew Research Center

Screens can be stressful, especially ones connected to the internet. The temptation to check our messages or the news can be constant, and it can rob us of meaningful interactions with those around us or some much needed rest.

Taking a break from our screens can provide an opportunity to truly relax, recharge and reconnect.

Benefit #2: Protect Your Brain

A study found that excessive exposure to screen time may negatively affect brain functions, including learning and memory.

International Journal of Mental Health and Addiction

Screens aren’t inherently bad, but they can become a problem when we overdo it. And, boy, it sure is easy to use them too much. We start to crave that dopamine hit that our devices provide, which can desensitize our brains and lead us to seek more stimulation from those same screens. And that becomes a big problem when unbridled screen use reduces cognitive capacity or leads to neurodegeneration—for both kids and adults.

Fasting from our devices can give us a clean break from unhealthy tech habits and provide illuminating perspective. After a screen fast, you’ll better understand how you and your family are affected by screens. And you’ll be better equipped to make some positive changes in your tech habits moving forward.

Benefit #3: Improve Family Interactions

Preteens’ recognition of nonverbal emotional cues increased significantly in the absence of screen-based media.

Computers in Human Behavior

More time looking at a screen means less time interacting with others, whether it’s family or friends. And that can lead to a diminished understanding of nonverbal communication, an important skill to build and maintain. When our devices hurt our ability to communicate in person, face to face, that’s a problem. And it’s not just an issue that kids struggle with: About 50% of teens say their parents get distracted by phones when having a conversation with them.

By participating in a screen fast, your family can enjoy in-person interactions free from device-related distractions. That can lead to better communication and intentional family time as you gift each other with undivided attention.

Join Us for Screen Fast 2025!

If these benefits sound good to you, why not consider joining us for Screen Fast 2025? It’s completely free, and when you sign up, you’ll receive tons of great content to guide you and your family through a weeklong fast. It’s the perfect opportunity to reset your family’s screen usage and take steps to build healthier tech and entertainment habits in your home. Sign up today!

The post Three Surprising Benefits of a “Screen Fast” appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
On the Radar: Bored Teens, Antisocial Behaviors in Boys and Safety Over Popularity https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-bored-teens-antisocial-behaviors-in-boys-and-safety-over-popularity/ https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-bored-teens-antisocial-behaviors-in-boys-and-safety-over-popularity/#comments Sat, 01 Feb 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=33859 Social media may be why teens are bored. Antisocial behavior in teen boys is linked to early exposure to violent content. Teens nowadays prioritize safety over popularity.

The post On the Radar: Bored Teens, Antisocial Behaviors in Boys and Safety Over Popularity appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
“I Am Often Bored,” Teens Say

What? According to a 2019 study, teen boredom levels started steadily increasing in 2010. Yahoo Life reports adolescent boredom reached a peak during the pandemic in 2021, ebbing in 2022 and then rising again in 2023.

So What? Research suggests that social media is part (but not all) of the problem. When teens are bored, they naturally reach for their phones. But according to Rebecca Winthrop, director of the Center for Universal Education at the Brookings Institution, teens reach a “tipping point” where scrolling through social media goes from being “relaxing or entertaining to being numbing, boring or … just kind of icky.”

Now What? The problem isn’t boredom itself but rather the “intolerance” of being bored. Cutting back on screentime can help curb that constant need for a dopamine fix (which social media and smartphones provide). However, experts also suggest embracing the boredom. “Boredom is the seed of creativity,” says Kent Toussaint, founder and clinical director at Teen Therapy Center. So when our kids are bored, rather than immediately giving them an activity to do, we should let their minds wander so they can come up with ideas on their own, developing a better sense of self and resilience to boredom.

Early Exposure to Violent Content Leads to Antisocial Teen Boys

What? A new study has found that young children “are attracted to fast-paced, stimulating violent content, which often features appealing characters like superheroes who commit and are rewarded for aggressive acts.”

So What? In a follow-up with children who were exposed to this sort of content between the ages of 3 and 4, researchers found that 11 years later, the now-teenage boys exhibited antisocial and aggressive behaviors more frequently. (Girls were unaffected.)

Now What? For years, violent video games, certain genres of music and even gory horror flicks have been implicated in why teenagers—particularly teen boys—sometimes behave aggressively. However, this latest study suggests that the problems begin much sooner, and in ways that we likely believed were harmless at the time. Superhero flicks are often justified because they show the good guys beating the bad guys. But for younger children, exposure to any kind of violence could have greater repercussions as they enter adolescence.

What? A recent survey found that Gen Zers (those ages 10 to 24) prioritize safety over other traditional teenage aspirations, such as being popular.

So What? According to StudyFinds, “Adolescents are more likely to overestimate risks and struggle to put threats in context.” And this can make them more vulnerable to fear-driven messaging prevalent in social media and even traditional forms of entertainment (as well as the news).

Now What? As parents, it’s part of our job to keep our children safe. But it’s also important to instill our kids with confidence and teach them to be brave. While it’s a good thing that teens want to be safe more than they want to be popular, we also want to make sure they aren’t debilitated by that fear and anxiety.

The post On the Radar: Bored Teens, Antisocial Behaviors in Boys and Safety Over Popularity appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-bored-teens-antisocial-behaviors-in-boys-and-safety-over-popularity/feed/ 4
Reducing Screen Time: Why We Struggle So Much https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/reducing-screen-time-why-we-struggle-so-much/ Wed, 29 Jan 2025 17:52:24 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=33816 Struggling to curb your family’s screen-time usage? You’re not alone. So we’d like to come alongside and help with our upcoming Screen Fast 2025.

The post Reducing Screen Time: Why We Struggle So Much appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
Do you think your teenager spends too much time on his or her phone?

What about your own screen time? Do you spend too much time on your phone?

According to Pew Research, roughly half of U.S. parents believe they spend too much time on their devices (compared to only 38% of teenagers who believe they spend too much time on their own screens). But cutting back on screen time—for yourself and for your kids—can be pretty burdensome.

It’s a source of contention, with 4 in 10 parents and teens saying that the screen-time battle regularly leads to arguments. And honestly, sometimes it’s just hard: 43% of parents say managing their teenager’s screen time is difficult.

Many people use the new year as an opportunity to cut back on their screen time. Unfortunately, 23% of people who make New Year’s resolutions quit by the end of the first week in January. By the month’s end, that number nearly doubles.

Well, the end of January is upon us, which means that about half of those who committed to making (or breaking) new habits this year have already thrown in the towel.

To those who are still going strong in their resolutions, I commend you. And I really do hope you see it through to the end of the year.

But for the rest of us, how do we curb our bad screen-time habits?

It may not be as hard as you think.

Some folks may opt to go cold turkey. No phones, no tablets, no TV. Researchers at Ruhr-Universität Bochum in Germany found that people who did this for one week did, in fact, spend less time on their phones daily (38 minutes) four months later.

However, that same research found that those who simply reduced their screen time by an hour per day for one week spent even less time on their phones four months later than the abstinence group did (45 minutes).

So when should you do this?

Well, you can start right now! Or, you know, once you finish reading this article (but I promise I won’t be offended if you put your phone down before you reach the end).

Or, if you’re someone who likes to have a set timeline and goals, you can also join the Plugged In staff on March 7 for our week-long Screen Fast. All week long, we’ll provide you with written materials suggesting activities to try in your new spare time, information on the benefits of taking a break from screens and even some short devotionals to help keep you motivated.

So join us—you can sign up at this link—and once the fast is over, let us know how it went. We’d love to hear what you did when you weren’t on your screens, how it affected your overall screen time and what your future plans are for keeping screen time down.

The post Reducing Screen Time: Why We Struggle So Much appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
On the Radar: Top Online Games Where Teens Are Harrassed, College Application Stress and Fake Phone Hacks https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-top-online-games-where-teens-are-harrassed-college-application-stress-and-fake-phone-hacks/ Sat, 25 Jan 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=33794 Which online games expose teens to the most bullying? Is stress preventing your teen from applying to college? How kids are getting around phone bans at school.

The post On the Radar: Top Online Games Where Teens Are Harrassed, College Application Stress and Fake Phone Hacks appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
Teens Are Increasingly Subjected to Prejudice and Racial Harassment When Gaming

What? A new report released by the Anti-Defamation League Center for Technology and Society (ADL) found that “almost half of the hour-long game plays” on Fortnite, Valorant, Counter-Strike 2 and Overwatch 2 (which each attract millions of daily users) “included some form of harassment, such as slurs, trash-talking or disrupted play.”

So What? Authors of the study said one-third of this harassment was “identity-based,” meaning that it directly assaulted the player’s religion or nationality as identified in usernames. However, study participants said they expected more abuse, hinting at how normal this harassment has become.

Now What? Experts have several suggestions to help parents mitigate this sort of abuse (both initiating and receiving). Talk frequently with your child about their online gaming experiences, so they feel safe sharing their concerns with you. Ensure they know how to handle harassment—whether by blocking certain users, reporting violations or even just walking away from the game for a while. Establish screen time limits for video gaming and restrict them to games appropriate for their age. Finally, talk about appropriate and inappropriate behavior so they can recognize the difference. And just as you would want to know your child’s real-life friends, know their virtual friends too.

1 in 8 Students Abandon College Dreams Before They Even Apply

What? According to a College Rover Study, “nearly 13% (1 in 8) of prospective college applicants abandoned their plans due to application stress.”

So What? Not attending college could adversely affect your child’s career. A study by Georgetown suggests that in 2031, 72% of all U.S. jobs will go to workers with education beyond high school, and those who have a bachelor’s degree will earn 84% more over a lifetime compared to those with only a high school diploma.

Now What? If your teen shows signs of becoming overwhelmed by the application process (evading questions about college, becoming emotional when the topic is broached or even fixating on the details of the process), don’t ignore it. Experts suggest regulating the number of college discussions at home, balancing academics with other responsibilities (like chores), and focusing on importance, not urgency. So rather than adding pressure—such as reminding them of looming deadlines—we should respond with empathy and practical support.

Teenagers Are Unwilling to Comply with Phone Bans at School

What? As cell phone distraction has increased at schools nationwide, several states have enacted bans, to varying degrees of severity.

So What? Unsurprisingly, teenagers aren’t exactly the biggest proponents of these restrictions. And they’re sharing videos on social media about how to get around these rules, including submitting their old, unused devices or even creating fake phones out of cardboard.

Now What? Not all parents support cell phone bans, since they want to be able to contact their child in case of emergency. That’s certainly a valid concern, but the teens submitting fake or old phones likely aren’t doing so for legitimate reasons. So talk to your teen about the reason for needing a phone during class time—mitigating boredom through social media apps or games probably isn’t worth getting busted over. And consider purchasing a “dumb” phone for emergency use only, monitoring how that phone is used to ensure it doesn’t become a distraction on its own.

The post On the Radar: Top Online Games Where Teens Are Harrassed, College Application Stress and Fake Phone Hacks appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
On the Radar: TikTok Ban, Google AI Lies and Weirdcore https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-tiktok-ban-google-ai-lies-and-weirdcore/ https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-tiktok-ban-google-ai-lies-and-weirdcore/#comments Sat, 18 Jan 2025 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=33732 What will a TikTok ban mean for our teens? Why did Google’s AI get confused about Plugged In? When did “weirdcore” become so popular?

The post On the Radar: TikTok Ban, Google AI Lies and Weirdcore appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
The Supreme Court Upheld the TikTok Ban. Now What?

What? Last April, President Biden signed a law with bipartisan support to ban TikTok in the United States due to national security concerns regarding the social media platform’s Chinese ownership. Since then, TikTok and its more than 170 million American users have been fighting back in court over alleged First Amendment violations. But yesterday, the Supreme Court unanimously ruled that the law would be upheld.

So What? There are quite a few things to note: This is the first time a popular social media platform has been shut down by the U.S. government. TikTok can keep operating if it divests itself from its Chinese parent company, ByteDance. But mostly, we’ve really got to look at how it’s going to affect our kids.

Now What? Besides YouTube, TikTok is the most widely used app by teenagers. And even kids too young to create an account have flocked to the short-form video platform. Without access to the app, these same adolescents are going to start looking for alternatives. If TikTok’s privacy concerns—the main reason officials set the ban to begin with—bothered you before, then you might want to look carefully at any app your teen wants to download as a replacement. RedNote and Lemon8 (the top contenders) are both still Chinese-owned. Other U.S.-based apps, such as Instagram and Snapchat, offer broadly similar content but still may result in adverse mental health outcomes for adolescents. Your teen may be inclined to panic, but maybe you can use this opportunity to talk about how social media has affected his or her life—and hopefully encourage them to evaluate whether the benefits truly outweigh the costs.

Google AI Made Some Mistakes About Plugged In

What? We here at Plugged In were shocked earlier this week when a reader sent us an email informing us that a recent Google search, summarized by AI, told the reader that we had recommended several movies that were rated R.

So What? Upon further investigation, it seems the AI was confused, compiling a list of the movies we had most recently reviewed. But dedicated readers of Plugged In know that we don’t actually recommend any movies, let alone films with R-rated content concerns. Sure, we’ll make suggestions every now and then, but we always encourage families to read our reviews, evaluate the content within, and then make the best decision for your family.

Now What? More than anything, this serves as an example of why we should always fact check any information acquired through AI—even when we think we can trust the source. Many news stories and studies have demonstrated how fallible artificial intelligence can be. And when we take it for granted, we’re liable to believe a lie.

A ‘Weirdcore’ Video Accumulated 300 Million Views

What? Weirdcore” is a visual aesthetic that “evokes feelings of confusion, nostalgia and unease,” writes Jesus Diaz for Fast Company. Many artists are using AI to create these unnerving fantasies and posting them all over Instagram, TikTok and Reddit.

So What? Weirdcore used to be fringe, online entertainment. But thanks to the upsurge in AI use, artists who specialize in this odd style are now creating videos for musicians like Snoop Dogg and even ads playing in Times Square. One weirdcore video, created by visual artist Edmond Yang, racked up 300 million views, with a total watch time of nearly 100 years.

Now What? The goal of most weirdcore artists is to entertain, spark curiosity and even connect with people, Diaz writes. But some artists delve into darker realms, such as Belgian artist Florian Nackaerts, who focuses on “body horror surrealism.” So if your teen is interested in this edgy genre, you may want to keep an eye on what he or she is watching. Most often the videos are just weird, funny even. But you can come across some really freaky, unsettling stuff that will just give you—and perhaps your kids—nightmares.

The post On the Radar: TikTok Ban, Google AI Lies and Weirdcore appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-tiktok-ban-google-ai-lies-and-weirdcore/feed/ 2
On the Radar: Digital Camera Renaissance, Contraceptive Use Declines and an Embrace of Weight-Loss Drugs https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-digital-camera-renaissance-contraceptive-use-declines-and-an-embrace-of-weight-loss-drugs/ https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-digital-camera-renaissance-contraceptive-use-declines-and-an-embrace-of-weight-loss-drugs/#comments Sat, 11 Jan 2025 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.pluggedin.com/?p=33670 Digital cameras enjoy Gen Z renaissance. Is OnlyFans influencing a decline in contraceptive use? Younger generations embrace new weight-loss drugs.

The post On the Radar: Digital Camera Renaissance, Contraceptive Use Declines and an Embrace of Weight-Loss Drugs appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
Digital Cameras Enjoy Gen Z Renaissance

What? Gen Z has a new love affair … with old technology. Just as vinyl records have enjoyed a resurgence, so Gen Z has now decided 2000s-era digital cameras are cool again.

So What? NPR reports that these cameras’ images have a more vintage vibe that appeals to Gen Z. Some young users also say that the camera’s limited storage capacity makes them more mindful of capturing significant images. Others report feeling a sense of security that their photos aren’t as easily hackable. Finally, there’s a longing for authenticity: “There is a yearning among young people for photos that look real, especially of themselves. So there’s a feeling there that you can’t get from your cell phone camera,” says photographer Casey Fatchett.

Now What? As parents, we often find ourselves anxious when it comes to how our kids embrace new tech. But this retro trend might be encouraging.

Condom Use Down Among Teens, OnlyFans to Blame?

What? The World Health Organization has reported what it calls an “alarming decline” in the percentage of adolescents using condoms or contraceptive pills during sex, with 30% saying they use neither. The international survey found that condom usage was lower among lower-income families.

So What? Some experts believe the decline is due to less sex education and limited access to contraceptives. That said, others point to the influence of popular sex-focused sites such as OnlyFans, and pornography in general, where condom usage is often neglected. To the extent that theory is accurate, it’s just the most recent example of how behavior can be influenced by what teens see onscreen.

Now What? Cultural attitudes toward the purpose and place of sex in our lives continue to veer ever further from biblical truth. And the culture is having a conversation about sex continually. Gone are the days when parents could have a one-and-done “talk” about the birds and bees. Though it can awkward and comfortable at times, cultivating an ongoing conversation about this important subject can help them internalize a Christian worldview and reject the risky ones offered by mainstream culture.

Younger Generations Embrace New Weight Loss Drugs

What? The calendar has rolled to 2025. And many of us, including teens, are interested in getting rid of some of those extra rolls. Increasingly, weight-loss drugs such as Ozempic are a potential option. And it turns out Gen Z is among the most open to using them, with 37% reporting plans use GLP-1 medications to speed their weight loss.

So What? Perhaps driven in part by seemingly ubiquitous advertising and marketing, GLP-1 medication has hit a cultural tipping point in terms of awareness and acceptance. And while it can potentially be an option with a doctor’s oversight, many are seeking it out without a physician’s involvement. Such self-diagnosis and self-medication, especially for younger users, is potentially dangerous—especially considering the drug’s sometimes extreme side effects.

Now What? Drugs such as Ozempic may potentially promote healthy weight loss—under a doctor’s supervision. But constant marketing, combined with online stories about dramatic weight loss, may also create false or dangerous expectations for overweight adolescents looking for a fast-fix to weight-loss struggles.   

The post On the Radar: Digital Camera Renaissance, Contraceptive Use Declines and an Embrace of Weight-Loss Drugs appeared first on Plugged In.

]]>
https://www.pluggedin.com/blog/on-the-radar-digital-camera-renaissance-contraceptive-use-declines-and-an-embrace-of-weight-loss-drugs/feed/ 2