A study carried out by Boston Medical Centre has raised questions about the relationships which develop between parents and their children when handheld gadgets and devices are a permanent fixture of family life.

Explaining the motivation behind the study, Dr. Jenny Radesky, a fellow in developmental and behavioural paediatrics, asserted that she was curious to see the effect smart phones may have on adult/ child exchanges.

Observing and recording the behaviour of adults and children in over fifty groups, researchers discovered that the presence of smartphones had a negative impact on verbal exchanges between parents and their offspring.

Noting particular interactions, researchers revealed that children were spoken to in brusque tones when they attempted to distract their parents from their devices while many children resorted to physical exchanges in a bid to get their parent’s attention.

Commenting on the study, Dr. Radesky said: “What stood out was that in a subset of caregivers using the device almost through the entire meal, how negative their interactions could become with the kids.”

The exchanges which were dubbed ‘harsh’ or ‘negative’ by researchers has resulted in the establishment of guidelines which parents can refer to to ensure their smartphone use does not negatively impact their relationship with their child.

Working with the American Academy of Pediatrics Dr. Radesky aims to advice parents on this issue by drawing on recent findings.

Commenting on the study, Dr. Wendy Sue Swanson of Seattle Children’s Hospital said: “These data are a wake-up call for we parents in that we really need to think about how these enticing devices not only distract us but potentially change who we are as parents.”

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