There are numerous personal accounts of teens who are addicted to technology. However, the DSM-5, the manual which psychologists use to diagnose mental illness, does not recognize technology addiction. The World Health Organization (WHO) recognized online Gaming Disorder only this year. The lack of recognition of technology addiction is a problem for parents seeking help…

By Trenna Ahlstrom   The World Health Organization (WHO) recently recognized compulsive sexual health disorder as a mental disorder. “I think it’s a game changer, really,” said D.J. Burr, a Seattle-based psychotherapist, and sex addiction specialist. Burr received his training from the Society for the Advancement of Sexual Health (SASH). He is a recognized authority…

Two recent surveys suggest a link between watching porn and subscribing to the belief that women are sex objects. These surveys are concerning for anyone interested in a more equitable future. This includes parents who would like their children to grow to have relationships based on love and not exploitation.     Age of Exposure…

by Contributor   While tech companies alone cannot make the digital world safe for teens, many tech companies are stepping up to give parents better tools to support their teens’ digital safety. We previously reported about Parental Control Apps like Circle which can help keep your family safe. Using these tools, and common sense low-tech…

When most parents imagine their teen’s future, they picture their teen growing up and having a loving and committed relationship. By watching porn, teen boys put themselves at risk of never experiencing that future. The truth is porn kills teenage boys chances of healthy relationships. Porn creates a distorted view of sex that is not…

By Maia Christopherson Cyberbullying comes in many forms. Through electronic means, teens will cyberbully by spreading rumors, sending threatening messages, posing as another teen and post embarrassing material, and forwarding private photos without consent. Cyberbullying is an attempt to humiliate and degrade another through social media. Cyberbullying has serious consequences, with many teens committing suicide…

by Maia Christopherson   There are many different streaming services for your family to watch your favorite shows on. Most don’t display ads, which is nice because regular TV bombards us with commercial messaging. Streaming is great until you realize just how many movies and shows are full of bad content. But don’t worry—streaming services…

Whether online or through a gaming console, there are thousands of games for teens to play. Games are not only fun, but can help youth develop problem-solving skills, learn how to commit to long-term goals, understand how to work in a team, and bond with family and friends. When gaming is balanced with time away…

By Maia Christopherson   Sleepovers can be a late night of fun and independence. Teens stay up late eating junk food, watching movies, playing games, sharing stories, and laughing lots. Many parents are happy to let their teens enjoy these experiences. Continue reading to learn why parents are banning sleepovers.    Some parents, though, ban…