Concerned Daughter Wants Her Parents to Put Down Their Phones
A daughter is at her wit's end after noticing her parents' heavy screen time during a recent visit. The concern stems from the daughter's upbringing, where screens were largely absent from the home and socialization was valued above all else.
The daughter recalls that her parents, both retired in their mid-60s, would often use their phones at dinner time and throughout the day to check messages and search for information online. This behavior is a stark contrast to how they raised their own children, who never had TVs or computers in their main living space.
The daughter feels that excessive phone use could have negative effects on her parents' social health, behavioral health, and mental acuity as they age. She's worried about the potential consequences of this new habit and wants to encourage her parents to reduce their screen time.
However, Dear Abby advises against trying to "parent" one's parents, suggesting that it may lead to resentment and failure. Instead, she recommends setting boundaries and being polite but firm when declining invitations to spend time together.
The daughter can try saying no to social engagements with her parents without feeling guilty or apologetic. If they continue to ask, the daughter should politely reiterate her decision without offering false hope for a future hangout.
Ultimately, it's up to each individual to decide how much screen time is too much and what boundaries are in place to protect their own well-being. For some, that may mean setting limits on phone use, while for others it may mean finding other ways to fill the void left by excessive screen time.
In either case, prioritizing face-to-face interaction and socialization can be a key component of maintaining good mental health as we age. By taking steps to reduce screen time and increase meaningful connections with loved ones, we can cultivate stronger, healthier relationships that bring joy and fulfillment to our lives.
A daughter is at her wit's end after noticing her parents' heavy screen time during a recent visit. The concern stems from the daughter's upbringing, where screens were largely absent from the home and socialization was valued above all else.
The daughter recalls that her parents, both retired in their mid-60s, would often use their phones at dinner time and throughout the day to check messages and search for information online. This behavior is a stark contrast to how they raised their own children, who never had TVs or computers in their main living space.
The daughter feels that excessive phone use could have negative effects on her parents' social health, behavioral health, and mental acuity as they age. She's worried about the potential consequences of this new habit and wants to encourage her parents to reduce their screen time.
However, Dear Abby advises against trying to "parent" one's parents, suggesting that it may lead to resentment and failure. Instead, she recommends setting boundaries and being polite but firm when declining invitations to spend time together.
The daughter can try saying no to social engagements with her parents without feeling guilty or apologetic. If they continue to ask, the daughter should politely reiterate her decision without offering false hope for a future hangout.
Ultimately, it's up to each individual to decide how much screen time is too much and what boundaries are in place to protect their own well-being. For some, that may mean setting limits on phone use, while for others it may mean finding other ways to fill the void left by excessive screen time.
In either case, prioritizing face-to-face interaction and socialization can be a key component of maintaining good mental health as we age. By taking steps to reduce screen time and increase meaningful connections with loved ones, we can cultivate stronger, healthier relationships that bring joy and fulfillment to our lives.
i mean think about it if u dont get enough social interaction ur mental health is gonna suffer big time! maybe instead of sayin no to hangouts they could try findin alternative ways 2 fill the void like puzzles, exercise, or even just spendin quality time w/ pets lol idk but havin more face 2 face interactions cant hurt anyone 
my grandparents are always glued to their phones too! 
I'm like 25 but they still think I'm young enough to care about what's trending on TikTok 
I mean, I get it, they need some online connection but all day? No thanks 
I feel for that daughter tho 
she just wants her parents to be happy and healthy 
not glued to their screens 
gotta respect boundaries though 
setting limits is key 
her parents were always super present and social growing up, and now they're stuck on their phones like zombies 
... excessive phone use is def a major concern for their mental health and social skills as they get older 
... its great that the daughter's trying to set boundaries tho 
, but honestly can't imagine having a convo with my own parents without checking my phone first 
setting boundaries with your parents is NOT about trying to "parent" them lol! That's like saying setting limits on their phone use means they're being controlling or something 
But yeah, setting boundaries and finding ways to reduce screen time can be super beneficial for both you and your parents.
screens are everywhere now & it's affecting ppl's mental health 
I'm not sure if it's the parents' fault tho, maybe they're just trying to stay connected with their kids & grandkids? 
maybe setting some boundaries like a no phone zone at dinner time or something 
could be helpful 
I feel so bad for the daughter trying to have this convo with her parents 
. I think setting boundaries & being polite but firm is a great way to go 
. Let's spread some positivity & encourage people to take steps towards reducing screen time & nurturing meaningful connections 
.