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Carmen Osorio, expert in technology addiction: ‘It’s not a good idea to give children a smartphone; in any case, you let them borrow yours’ (english.elpais.com)
submitted 2 years ago by to c/technology@beehaw.org
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[–] 7 points 2 years ago* (2 children)

I don't really have a formed opinion on this subject. (Though I have some experience with certain things where holding back in childhood has lead to potentially much bigger addictions)

But I can tell you that my uncle bought smartwatches to his children. The watches are only allowed to call family members & have GPS tracking on them, have no games, no Youtube no distractions. They are exactly what you are describing, a safety feature. (though the kids regularly dualwear them to cover for each other, so .... :D )

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  • [–] 4 points 2 years ago (1 child)

    Point taken. I agree that specific product would solve the safety feature aspect while avoiding the addiction possibility. I suppose it then comes down to when a parent feels their child is ready and cognizant of the dangers of addiction.

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  • [–] 2 points 2 years ago

    parent feels their child is ready and cognizant of the dangers of addiction.

    Yes, I think so. In 5-10 years science will have caught up & parents could possibly be able to make more informed decisions in this regard & until then it's basically up to luck.

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  • [–] 3 points 2 years ago (1 child)

    I'm not really in favor of the GPS tracking thing. It feels to protective and a bit overbearing to me.

    I mean I wouldn't think of location tracking my significant other and I would hate it if someone was location tracking me. So why do that to your children?

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  • [–] 2 points 2 years ago

    Depends on the person. Some couples location track each other with consent, I would be fine with that too.

    As for children I think it's alright if it's not used as a leash to question why they aren't home yet studying and such. Helicopter parents can abuse this causing further harm, but for normal parents it shouldn't be too bad, or I don't know.

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