Most residents of Latvia believe that families need to reduce the use of smart devices during leisure time, according to data from a new survey.
Overall, 72% of respondents noted that during moments intended for spending time together, such as during dinner, games, or trips, families could use their phones less.
These data indicate a broader problem in communication and relationships among family members. Almost half, or 45% of respondents, admitted that conflicts arose in their families due to the use of smart devices. This suggests that excessive phone use not only reduces the quality of time spent together but also creates tension in relationships.
The survey data also revealed a connection between the use of smart devices and the quality of communication within the family. In families where phones are regularly used during shared activities or conflicts arise because of them, conversations on personal topics, feelings, and problems occur significantly less frequently.
Although most residents recognize the need for change, in practice, this does not always happen. 70% of families still do not have rules regarding the use of smart devices at home. Furthermore, only a portion of families regularly pay attention to quality communication - 43% noted that conversations on personal topics occur in their families.
The time that parents spend with their children without using smart devices is often limited as well - 21% of parents dedicate less than 30 minutes a day to this, and only 22% spend more than two hours. However, as experts emphasize, the number of minutes and hours does not always indicate the quality of communication. Often, shorter but more mindful and quality time spent without smart devices turns out to be significantly more valuable.
