Quebec begins Monday morning the last step leading to an offensive to counter the harmful effects of screens on young people, an initiative delayed by the pandemic, but more necessary than ever, believe several stakeholders.
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In the midst of a pandemic, screens have become ubiquitous, for better or for worse. At least, this is what emerges from several briefs submitted in the context of consultations on the use of screens and the health of young people, the second part of which is starting today in Quebec.
About fifteen organizations, including several “players in the field” from the fields of youth, health and education, will come together to exchange their findings, thoughts and courses of action. The government strategy to counter the negative impacts of screens on young people will be unveiled in the coming months.
- Listen to Philippe-Vincent Foisy’s interview with Bruno Guglielminetti, consultant in digital communication strategy, on QUB radio:
Concern in schools
The Institut national de santé publique du Québec is particularly concerned about the increase in screen time in the school context, which is in addition to the long hours already spent in front of video games or social networks.
The use of technologies in the classroom increases “the risk of negative impacts”, opening the door to abuse or slippage in connection with continuous access to the Internet, it is emphasized in particular.
A portrait of the use of screens in schools as well as an analysis of the benefits and risks associated with them should be carried out in an attempt to see more clearly, according to the organization.
Several stakeholders are calling for more initiatives to make young people aware of the negative impacts of screens in their daily lives, in order to achieve a better balance for their physical and mental health.
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