Children sitting for long hours in front of screens at home has become a daily scene. Many mothers jokingly ask: Do our children live with us, or in another world behind the screen? Behind this humor lies a real concern—hidden screen addiction and excessive, unconscious scrolling.
Dr. Khaled Sayed Al-Morsi, Professor of Technology, notes that children aged 12 to 17 spend 4 to 7 hours a day in front of screens outside school time, mostly on social media. Exceeding 3 hours daily is clearly linked to psychological risks such as anxiety and depression.
Signs of Social Media Addiction in Children
Behavioral Indicators
Constant checking of the phone for notifications and content
Neglecting schoolwork and refusing to do homework
Anger or withdrawal when interrupted
Declining academic performance
Psychological & Emotional Indicators
Anxiety and mood swings linked to likes and comments
Low self-esteem and constant comparison with others
Fear of missing out (FOMO): “Everyone is there, and I’m not”
Social & Academic Impact
Isolation from family and reduced participation in family gatherings
Weak academic focus, with games replacing learning
Loss of interest in real-life hobbies like sports, art, and reading
Long-Term Effects of Screen Addiction
Impact on Personal Identity
Seeking love and validation through online reactions rather than real relationships
Building self-worth based on others’ opinions instead of inner confidence
Impact on Empathy
Reduced emotional understanding due to lack of real human interaction
Focus on appearance and image rather than genuine feelings
Impact on Learning
Superficial learning through short videos and fast content
Exposure to misinformation and inability to distinguish reliable sources
How Can Mothers Deal with This Addiction?
Start a calm, friendly dialogue—be a listener, not an interrogator
Ask about the content they enjoy and why it interests them
Be present and involved; watch some content together and discuss it
Set clear screen-free times (e.g., meals, bedtime)
Use parental control tools if needed (like Google Family Link)
Suggest real-life alternatives: sports, drawing, reading, outings
Let the child choose activities to strengthen commitment
A Message to Every Mother
Screens can be educational and entertaining, but danger arises when they become the “second mother”, replacing real warmth and presence. Dialogue is the key to change—not force, but balance and planning.
Remember: online friendships can never replace the warmth of real human connection. With patience and smart guidance, mothers can gently bring their children back to the real world—where creativity, interaction, and true presence truly matter.
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