The Dissenter

#993 Peter Etchells - Unlocked: The Real Science of Screen Time (and how to spend it better)

26 snips
Sep 13, 2024
Guest
Peter Etchells
Peter Etchells, a Professor of Psychology and Science Communication at Bath Spa University, dives into the complex world of screen time. He addresses societal fears surrounding new technologies and their real effects on mental health and sleep. Etchells emphasizes the importance of balancing the positive and negative aspects of screen use, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of individual experiences. He critiques the simplification of digital addiction and promotes mindful engagement with technology, highlighting the need for better design from tech companies.
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INSIGHT

Technopanic Origins

  • Moral panics around new technologies arise from their rapid spread and unfamiliarity.
  • Suspicion towards technology, especially its impact on youth, is a recurring theme.
INSIGHT

Screen Time Definition

  • "Screen time" is a poorly defined research concept, encompassing all screen-based activities.
  • It lacks specificity, making it difficult to draw meaningful conclusions about its effects.
INSIGHT

Social Media & Mental Health Research

  • Research on social media and mental health primarily relies on correlational studies.
  • These studies lack a strong theoretical framework, hindering causal interpretations.
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