We live in a hyperconnected world, where social mediaInstant messaging and digital platforms are part of teenagers’ everyday lives. In Casvi Boadilla We are integrating the use of technology in classrooms to promote a healthy approach, but how does this digitalisation affect to the personal, emotional and social development of young people?
HOW HAS COMMUNICATION CHANGED AMONG TEENAGERS?
Nowadays, teenagers cannot imagine their lives without a mobile device. Most of their interactions no longer take place face to face, but through screens: they send memes instead of gestures, reactions instead of words, and voice messages instead of face-to-face conversations.
This transformation has very positive aspects.. Social media, for example, allows teenagers to express themselves, share their interests and create communities beyond their physical environment. In addition, digital communication enhances creativity, facilitates access to information and reinforces identity.
Sin embargo, también plantea nuevos retos: misunderstandings due to a lack of non-verbal language, constant dependence on online validation, or difficulty disconnecting from the digital environment. Teenagers often experience social anxiety, pressure to maintain their image, or even isolation despite always being “connected”.
Therefore, understanding how they communicate today is the first step in helping them do so in a healthier and safer way.
HEALTHY DIGITAL COMMUNICATION: KEY POINTS FOR SUPPORTING FROM HOME AND FROM THE CLASSROOM
Communication skills remain fundamental in everyone’s life, even when they occur on a screen. Accompanying teenagers in this process does not mean prohibiting, but rather educating and guiding them in the responsible use of technology.
Here are some strategies for promoting healthy digital communication:
- Discuss your digital habits: Show interest in the platforms they use, what they like to share, or who they communicate with. Listening without judging builds trust.
- Help them identify risks: Cyberbullying, sexting, fake news, and digital dependency are topics they should be able to discuss with trusted adults.
- Promote empathy online too: Remembering that there are real people behind every screen helps to avoid conflicts or hurtful behaviour.
- Set screen-free timesDigital disconnection is also necessary. It encourages family time spent talking, playing games or doing activities without mobile phones.
- Set an example: Adults also need to review how we communicate on social media. Modelling balanced use has more impact than a thousand speeches.
Ultimately, it is not about returning to the past, but rather adapting the tools of the present to serve the emotional and social development of young people.
At Casvi Boadilla, we promote an education that goes beyond academic content. Our programmes focus on social skills, emotional education and citizenship. Digital schools are committed to ensuring that pupils learn to communicate consciously, respectfully and empathetically in all environments.
