Reconnecting Families: The Urgent Call to Ditch Digital Distractions

Families are being urged to prioritize meaningful communication, as the increasing reliance on technology poses a threat to authentic relationships and family connections. Archbishop Peter Loy Chong, the head of the Catholic Church in Fiji, emphasizes the importance of family time over digital distractions, noting the overwhelming engagement children have with their devices.

Archbishop Loy Chong warns that this shift can contribute to weakened family bonds and hinder social development. He highlights broader issues related to neglecting children’s emotional needs, citing instances where parents use devices to pacify crying children instead of offering comfort and care. This reliance on technology can create a society deprived of significant relationships, thereby exacerbating issues like domestic violence and child abuse.

Sister Teresia Tinanisolo, a Marist Missionary, shares similar concerns, indicating that there is a growing divide between parents and children as families increasingly depend on gadgets to keep kids occupied. She cautions about the potential long-term effects on children’s social skills if this trend continues.

To counteract these detrimental trends, Archbishop Loy Chong stresses the necessity for families to engage in face-to-face interactions, particularly during meals and family activities. The conversations around fostering strong familial ties have become more crucial as technology continues to dominate daily life.

The emphasis on improving family dynamics is echoed by other leaders in Fijian society, including Minister for Women, Children, and Social Protection Lynda Tabuya, who has expressed alarm over rising child neglect due to excessive phone usage by parents. As highlighted by various community leaders, the call to action is clear: families must reconnect and cherish interpersonal relationships in a world increasingly mediated by screens.

There is hope that by encouraging families to make small yet significant changes, such as setting aside devices during meals, they can nurture healthier relationships and ensure children’s emotional needs are met. This collective effort from parents and the community can pave the way for a brighter future, where children feel valued and connected.