In today’s fast-paced digital era, it’s easy for our children to get swept up in the constant stream of notifications, videos and social media updates.
As Malaysian parents, many of us worry about our kids spending too much time on their devices.
We see them glued to their screens, endlessly scrolling through TikTok or Instagram Reels.
This “doomscrolling”, as it’s often called, can have a surprising effect, shrinking their attention spans down to what feels like just a few seconds.
If you find your child struggling to concentrate on schoolwork, conversations, or even a simple story, you’re not alone.
Many paediatricians and child development experts across Malaysia are hearing these very same concerns and believe they are valid.
The way modern technology is designed – to be addictive and constantly rewarding – is directly impacting our children’s ability to focus.
ALSO READ: Facebook, Instagram's trial for negative effects on kids
The impact on focus
The constant engagement with digital technology fundamentally reshapes a teenager’s brain, making it challenging to maintain sustained attention and deep concentration.
Here’s what happens:
The internet and social media are engineered to be addictive.
Notifications, new content and the desire for social connection provide small “dopamine hits”, which create a reward loop.
The brain is effectively trained to seek out these frequent, short bursts of novelty and excitement.
ALSO READ: We have become a dopamine nation
When a teen’s focus is interrupted by a notification or the urge to check their phone, their brain must shift gears.
This constant task switching negatively affects the quality and speed of their work.
Research suggests that the average amount of time people stay focused on a single task while using a device has dropped significantly.
What was once measured in minutes is now measured in seconds.
A reduced attention span is more than a minor annoyance as it can have profound effects on a teen’s development and daily life.
These include:
- Academic struggles
Constant distraction makes it difficult to concentrate during homework or classes, which can lead to poorer academic performance.
- Reduced quality of work
A brain that is constantly switching tasks cannot engage in the deep, sustained thought required for complex problem-solving and creative thinking.
- Anxiety and stress
The pressure to be constantly available and the “fear of missing out” (FOMO) can lead to heightened anxiety and stress.
How parents can help
Parents can play a crucial role in helping their children reclaim their focus.
Here are some tips that you can try:
Encourage your teen to put their phone in another room while they are doing homework. Even having a phone nearby can make it harder to focus.
Suggest that your teen start by deliberately ignoring notifications for a short period and gradually increase the duration over time.
Or try other forms of regular digital detox.
Help your teen write down their goals on a sticky note and place it somewhere visible.
This helps them visualise the positive outcome of completing a task.
Ensure your teen is getting enough sleep.
A well-rested brain is better equipped to focus and resist distraction.
Parents are also advised to encourage breaks and outdoor time.
By taking regular breaks and spending time outdoors, teens can help reset their minds and improve focus.
Most importantly, parents should walk the talk.
Limit your own use of phone and electronic gadgets, and follow the rules you set for your child.
Ultimately, helping our teens navigate this digital landscape isn’t about eliminating technology, but about teaching them mindful use and digital self-control.
By implementing these strategies, we can empower them to reclaim their focus, improve their well-being, and thrive both in and out of the digital world.
Dr Thiyagar Nadarajaw is a consultant paediatrician and adolescent medicine specialist. This article is courtesy of the Malaysian Paediatric Association’s Positive Parenting programme in collaboration with expert partners. For further information, please email starhealth@thestar.com.my. The information provided is for educational and communication purposes only, and it should not be construed as personal medical advice. Information published in this article is not intended to replace, supplant or augment a consultation with a health professional regarding the reader’s own medical care. The Star does not give any warranty on accuracy, completeness, functionality, usefulness or other assurances as to the content appearing in this column. The Star disclaims all responsibility for any losses, damage to property or personal injury suffered directly or indirectly from reliance on such information.
