Dr. Gregory Jantz, PhD, the bestselling author of- #Hooked: The Pitfalls of Media, Technology and Social Networking, an expert on social media addiction, was Lon's guest on today's LA Talk Radio's "Parent Choices for Struggling Teens". Cutting right to the chase, Dr. Jantz stated "here's what we know, without appropriate boundaries, the use of electronics and social media can over stimulate the brain, leading to an addictive brain. And with poor regulation on usage of these devices, we are seeing that kids and adults prefer a "virtual relationship" as opposed to a real life relationship."
When asked what some symptoms and warning signs are for parents to look out for, Dr. Jantz shared "an indication of a problem with too much media exposure includes preferring to be home alone online, rather than out with others, not enough sleep/blurred eyes, unhealthy relationships (met through online sources) and for some younger adolescents, as young as 11, the addiction to pornography.
"Technology is always changing and frankly, our kids are faster and smarter than us. The signs are showing as a society, that there is more and more multi-tasking going on, which looks a lot like ADD. These devices are creating people with partial attention. And on the same hand, they are also partially distracted. In comparison to the onslaught of TV's in the 50's, the advantage (and disadvantage) of today's devices are the instant accessibility to the Internet and the portability of the devices, especially the I Phones and I pads…they can do everything!"
The number one thing parents can do to help get a handle on their child's usage, both Dr. Jantz and Lon agreed was to get involved, open their eyes and learn about today's social media. Parent education and parent support is needed. It is up to parents to discipline and regulate the amount of time their child is online/or plugged in. If need be, use an old fashioned kitchen timer to set the time limits. Another strategy is 'parent modeling'. Look at what you are doing and set the example for your child. Teach balance!
To listen to the full interview go to
Can Facebook Really Be an Addiction? on
LATalkRadio.
Also available in Podcast 
Lon Woodbury is the owner/founder of Woodbury Reports Inc. and
www.strugglingteens.com. He has worked with families and struggling teens since 1984 and is the host of Parent Choices for Struggling Teens on LATalkRadio Mondays at 12:00pm, Pacific Time, Channel One.
Dr. Gregory Jantz, PhD, is the author of 27 books written on a variety of issues including: abuse, addictions, depression, eating disorders, weight loss, relationships and children. He is also the founder of The Center- a Place of Hope, founded over 25 years ago. With over 25 years of experience in mental health counseling, Dr. Jantz is also a public speaker, and shares with his audiences his philosophy of "the whole-person" approach.
This segment was sponsored by Spring Ridge Academy, 928-632-4602,
www.springridgeacademy.com, a Therapeutic Boarding School for Girls in Arizona.