The positive effects of screens

We tend to focus more on the risks of using the Internet and screens, but these tools also offer many benefits and advantages. Let’s not forget that they were originally designed to make life easier and more entertaining—even if we now know that excessive or inappropriate screen use can have negative impacts! So here’s a look at some of the benefits and advantages, for young and not-so-young alike.

The positive impacts of screens on physical health

There are a multitude of websites, video games, apps, and technological devices that help us adopt healthier habits and take care of our physical health by encouraging us to:

• move;
• engage in physical activity;
• eat well and hydrate;
• get enough sleep.

Of course, it’s preferable to be active outdoors to take advantage of natural daylight—but sometimes this isn’t possible for a number of reasons. In such cases, screens can provide an alternative solution. It’s still a better option than remaining inactive!

The positive impacts of screens on psychological health

A number of websites and apps are designed to promote good mental health, namely by helping us:

• improve our well-being;
• manage our time;
• develop our creativity;
• relax and meditate;
• get rid of a bad habit.

Technology also facilitates access to certain support services, for example:

• support groups, forums and communities;
• messaging services with qualified support staff;
• online therapy services.

Not everyone has access to these kinds of services, whether in remote areas or in Montreal. And wait times can sometimes be long. These services and apps can help.

The positive impacts of screens on social life

Social media, forums, blogs, and online educational content can all:

• contribute to the development of identity and social skills;
• facilitate access to education;
• increase exposure to different cultures;
• foster inclusion and facilitate access to social support among young people belonging to marginalized subgroups.

In addition, a number of educational shows encourage children and teenagers to:

• develop positive attitudes (gratitude, respect, openness to diversity);
• gain good social skills (tolerance, communication, empathy).

So even though social media can have negative impacts on teens’ mental health, it’s a big part of their lives. That’s why it’s important to guide them toward positive and inclusive content.

The case of video games

In general, playing video games can have positive effects. Namely, it encourages socializing with other players or with the community created around the game (e.g. forums, online communication tools). Video games with prosocial themes can even foster the development of good social skills.

For young people, playing video games can also become an opportunity to:

• develop their creativity;
• improve their visuospatial abilities;
• gain knowledge;
• practice problem-solving;
• learn to deal with failure;
• raise their awareness of certain social issues;
• develop their sportsmanship;
• get acquainted with certain computer tools and technological devices in general.

In short, for screens to provide more advantages than disadvantages for you and the members of your family, it’s important to try to use them in a balanced and varied way.