A new study from the Barna Group was released on the influence of technology in families. Here is a summary list of the 5 findings:1. Parents are just as dependent on technology as are teens and tweens. Parents are more likely than their tween and teen offspring to report regular use of cell phones and desktop computers. They are just likely as their teens and tweens to use laptop computers and tablet-like devices. Parents watch just as much television and movies, use the Internet for as many minutes per day, and spend more time on the telephone and emailing than do their tween- and teen-aged children.
2. Most family members, even parents, feel that technology has been a positive influence on their families. The conclusion is that most families welcome technology and media with open arms, rather than with suspicion. One of the reasons for this may be that many families use technology, including television, movies and video games, as a shared experience.
3. Very few adults or youth take substantial breaks from technology. Americans’ dependence on—what some might call addiction to—digital technology is apparent in the study’s findings. The question arises whether families are in control of their technology or being controlled by it.
4. Families experience conflict about technology, but not in predictable ways. Technology seems to amplify the relational patterns and problems already in place: families that have healthy and frequent conversations find technology aiding that process, while families without such healthy interactions find that technology exacerbates the isolation of its members.
5. Few families have experienced—or expect—churches to address technology. Most families are not getting any coaching or assistance when it comes to integrating technology into their family life. The implication is that faith communities could take a leadership role in teaching about the proper use of technology in healthy families.
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