Smartphone and Tablet as Digital Babysitter

Ruggero Andrisano Ruggieri (), Monica Mollo and Grazia Marra
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Ruggero Andrisano Ruggieri: Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Science, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, nr. 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
Monica Mollo: Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Science, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, nr. 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy
Grazia Marra: Department of Human, Philosophical and Educational Science, University of Salerno, Via Giovanni Paolo II, nr. 132, 84084 Fisciano, SA, Italy

Social Sciences, 2024, vol. 13, issue 8, 1-17

Abstract: Several scientific studies have highlighted the negative impact of new technologies (NTs) on children’s psychological development, both in terms of emotional and cognitive development. NTs, such as smartphones, tablets, and video games, have a significant impact on children’s development, both in terms of social relationships and cognitive functions. This study aims to identify and explore the cultural models that shape children’s exposure to new technologies in early childhood. This study involved 48 subjects between parents and infant educators. Unstructured interviews were conducted. Emotional Text Analysis was applied. The findings reveal the existence of three cultural repertoires (clusters): Connected but isolated (45.2), Technology education (30%), and Mistrust (24.8%). Their placement in the factorial space explains how the negative effects on children’s psychological development are determined. Technology education seems to be a protective factor for the cognitive and affective development of children. These findings are discussed, comparing them with Musk’s recent experiment and the rapid loss of social ties due to the lack of an educational plan.

Keywords: digital psychology; internet addiction; internet disorder; child development; neglect (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: A B N P Y80 Z00 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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