Technology has introduced cyberspace to young people in a way that helps and hinders it. It offers advantages and benefits that support and assist in their studies. However, some downsides can deleteriously affect their minds and lives.

One of the significant digital age drawbacks is the savage impact social media has on lives through cyberbullying. Another downside is the temptation to complete assignments through cutting, pasting and plagiarising from online sources.

One of the more sinister impacts of the online age is its ability to disrupt and change the behaviour of users. Young people can be influenced to alter their thinking about things important to their future life. Some of these changes are a little short of bizarre.

“Australian children as young as seven … are launching aggressive attacks on their parents, lying to get out of school and avoiding family holidays to play Fortnite marathons, as the video game recruits a new generation of underage players.” (Jennifer Dudley-Nicholson, Kids in video game crisis, Sunday Territorian, 26 May 2019)

The author adds, “Education and neuroscience experts warn excessive and premature use of (video games) is leading to a ballooning crisis for Australian families, … now checking their children into dedicated rehabilitation centres to wean them off screens and reintegrate them into social, family and school life.” (Op.cit)

This is an issue that has been looming for some time. Experts have cautioned against children of tender years being allowed uncontrolled access to gaming applications. However, it seems their advice has largely been ignored.

Others claim to be experts who maintain that ‘games are just games’ and do not alter young people’s perceptions about the realities of life.

If many children and adolescents are so preoccupied with gaming that nothing else matters, then addiction is a real issue. Fortnite, one of the top online games, is not recommended for players under 13.

It is influencing far younger children. The article quotes neuroscience communicator Jill Sweatmen who is concerned that this particular game is attracting children who, at 7 or 8 years of age, are too young and mentally unprepared to handle its content. “There are short-term consequences and significant long-term consequences to this.” (Op cit)

Parents need to be on guard and aware of the sites their children visit and the online games that can be so absorbing. Schools play their part, but awareness, education and the shaping of young attitudes have to start in the home. This issue cannot be ignored.