In "The Big Disconnect: Protecting Childhood," the authors unveil the alarming consequences of our increasingly digital world on the development of children. They argue that technology, while offering connectivity and convenience, is creating a rift in the essential human connections necessary for healthy growth. Through compelling research and poignant anecdotes, the book explores how digital distractions can hinder emotional bonding and hinder vital life skills. As they navigate the complexities of modern parenting, the authors provide practical strategies for reclaiming quality time and nurturing genuine relationships. Dive into this thought-provoking exploration and discover how we can safeguard the essence of childhood amid a digital deluge.
By Catherine Steiner-Adair, EdD., Teresa H. Barker
Published: 2013
"The Big Disconnect: Protecting Childhood explores the impact of technology on children's development and family relationships."
Wall Street Journal Best Nonfiction Pick; Publisher's Weekly Best Book of the Year Clinical psychologist Catherine Steiner-Adair takes an in-depth look at how the Internet and the digital revolution are profoundly changing childhood and family dynamics, and offers solutions parents can use to successfully shepherd their children through the technological wilderness. As the focus of the family has turned to the glow of the screen—children constantly texting their friends or going online to do homework; parents working online around the clock—everyday life is undergoing a massive transformation. Easy access to the Internet and social media has erased the boundaries that protect children from damaging exposure to excessive marketing and the unsavory aspects of adult culture. Parents often feel they are losing a meaningful connection with their children. Children are feeling lonely and alienated. The digital world is here to stay, but what are families losing with technology's gain? As renowned clinical psychologist Catherine Steiner-Adair explains, families are in crisis as they face this issue, and even more so than they realize. Not only do chronic tech distractions have deep and lasting effects but children also desperately need parents to provide what tech cannot: close, significant interactions with the adults in their lives. Drawing on real-life stories from her clinical work with children and parents and her consulting work with educators and experts across the country, Steiner-Adair offers insights and advice that can help parents achieve greater understanding, authority, and confidence as they engage with the tech revolution unfolding in their living rooms.
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“The Big Disconnect: Protecting Childhood explores the impact of technology on children's development and family relationships.”
The Big Disconnect
By Catherine Steiner-Adair, EdD., Teresa H. Barker
Discover a world of knowledge through our extensive collection of book summaries.
Catherine Steiner-Adair, EdD, is an esteemed clinical psychologist, author, and educator renowned for her insightful exploration of the intersection between technology, culture, and human relationships. With a keen focus on the impact of digital media on families and children, she has written several notable works, including "The Big Disconnect: Protecting Childhood and Family Relationships in the Digital Age" and "Full Steam Ahead: The Power of Living Your Life in Color."
Steiner-Adair's writing is characterized by its engaging narrative style, grounded in research and practical wisdom, making complex issues accessible to a broad audience. Her expertise in psychology and education shines through as she combines compelling storytelling with actionable insights, fostering meaningful dialogue around the challenges of modern parenting and the implications of technology on social interaction. Through her work, she aims to empower families to navigate the digital landscape while nurturing authentic connections.
Teresa H. Barker is an accomplished author and journalist known for her engaging storytelling and insightful explorations of complex themes. With a background in both science and literature, Barker’s work often blends narrative depth with a keen examination of societal issues. She is celebrated for her notable works, including "The Brave Ones" and "Love in a Time of Climate Change," which reflect her commitment to environmental advocacy and social justice.
Barker's writing style is characterized by its lyrical prose and compelling character development, often drawing readers into richly imagined worlds that prompt reflection on contemporary dilemmas. A skilled communicator, she has contributed articles to various esteemed publications, blending her passion for writing with a dedication to raising awareness on critical topics. Through her literature and journalism, Teresa H. Barker continues to inspire readers to think critically about the world around them.
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