Looking at the Reasons We Spend Time in Online Spaces

Reflect with your teen about what platforms they spend time on and why.

Oct 9, 2024

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By Kerry Gallagher

According to research released by Thorn recently, “The five platforms with the highest daily usage rates (for minors) were YouTube (83%), TikTok (64%), Snapchat (48%), Facebook (47%), and Instagram (45%).” We can learn more about why our teens are pulled toward each platform since it is likely they use different online spaces for different purposes. 

  1. First, think about which of these platforms you use as an adult? What are the different reasons you go to each platform?
  2. Then, ask your teens the same questions: Which of these platforms do you use daily? When you go to each platform, what are you looking to see or experience?
  3. Finally, the next set of questions are meant to help you and your teen reflect on the impact of those habits:
    1. How do you feel after visiting each platform? How would you describe your mood and energy?
    2. Do you think the information or content on each platform has a mostly positive or negative impact on you?
    3. What changes do you wish you could make to your habits on each platform?

In these conversations, it is helpful to share your own reflections on your use of these platforms as well. All of us can benefit from reflecting on our digital habits.


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