Teenagers today may be struggling with what experts are calling a “popcorn brain,” where constant stimulation leads to shorter attention spans and difficulty focusing. Does that sound like your teen? Keep reading because according to the experts, here are a few signs that your teen has a “popcorn brain” and how parents can help combat it!
Per Parents.com, the term “popcorn brain” was first introduced to the world by University of Washington computer sciences professor, David M. Levy, Ph.D., to describe a state of being wherein individuals are so hooked on digital multitasking that slower-paced everyday tasks hold no interest.
Some signs that point to having a “popcorn brain” include: scrolling on digital platforms, toggling from one app to another, double-screening (in other words, scrolling on Instagram, while watching a movie on the television), difficulty concentrating, rapid shifts in attention, constant craving for stimulation, difficulty retaining information, difficulty following multi-step directions, feeling anxious and unable to regulate emotions, etc.
According to Dr. Levy, when individuals become “popcorn brains,” they are diminishing their attention spans and interests in hobbies, tasks, and even social interactions that take in the real world. In terms of the teenage brain, this can affect pivotal brain growth development.
“Because teen brains have not yet mastered the art of managing their intense emotions, spending time on social media removes adolescents from real life situations that allow them to build important social skills,” Aliah Singh, co-founder of CultivaTeen Roots, an online learning platform for parents and caregivers of teens, explained to Parents in a recent interview.
”Prolonged screen time can lead to mood swings and make real world obstacles feel more stressful than they are, causing adolescents to shut down and become overwhelmed.”
So just what are parents supposed to do as we live in a digital age that is only getting more advanced by the minute? Well, according to the experts, here are some tips that parents can add to their parenting toolboxes to help combat popcorn brain in teens.
First and foremost, Singh recommends something that we have heard repeatedly: set healthy limits to screen time and encourage in-person social moments. “Making space on a regular basis to be mindful, intentional, and present (without the presence of screens) can help the teen brain relearn how to maintain focus,” Singh told the outlet. “From boredom comes creativity, new ideas, patience, imagination, focus and more. In our fast paced world, teens need to work on slowing down.”
Other things that parents can do include: promoting mindfulness and meditation; creating a structured routine without screens such as daily chores, recreation, etc.; model healthy technology usage; encourage your kids to get physical; and simply allow for some downtime just to relax and recharge.
By creating a balanced environment and promoting healthy habits, parents can help their teens control their “popcorn brains”.