Ep.275: Parenting Teens: Social Media and Communication with Heather Thompson Day

Communications professor Heather Thompson Day talks about Gen Z's use of technology and social media and how these tools impact how they communicate (or don't) with the world around them. From developing a low tolerance for discomfort to managing how others perceive us, Heather offers professional insights into how social media is shaping a generation. For parents of today's teens who feel at a loss on how to help their kids navigate this world of screens, posts, and likes, this conversation gives insight on practices families can take together. From meditation on Scripture to family check-ins we can open new channels of connection with our kids that help them identify and feel their feelings while learning about disappointment and discomfort. Social media can feel like a beast (because it is!) and Heather doesn't let us forget it has addictive features that rewire our brain when we're engaged with it. We don't have to despair though. We can have meaningful relationships with our teens that help anchor them in the actual world and gives them the tools to better manage the technology.