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My son and daughter-in-law are very good about limiting our grandkids screen time. I’m happy about this, because a growing body of science says too much screen time does all kinds of bad things to kids. And it’s not just what they watch. While that is a concern, too much is harmful even if it’s good content.
There’s less data on adults, but we’re learning that more screen time means a better chance of depression. And more social media time can be especially harmful.
Beyond that, I’m seeing more and more discussion of how screen time effects marriages. And it’s not good! More screen time means less connection with our spouses. That makes us feel less happy about our marriages. That increases the risk for things like adultery, divorce, or becoming roommates.
I’m also starting to see research that says there is a negative correlation between screen time and sexual frequency. In one British study, a third of those in relationships said their screen time was getting in the way of having sex.
Of course, there is the question of cause and effect here. If your wife isn’t giving you the time you want, you may turn to your phone because of that. For many, it’s a vicious cycle.
You can’t change your wife, but you can make wise choices for yourself. Make yourself available, and set an example.
Image Credit: © Paul H Byerly created with stockdreams.ai
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I will say that even after 42 years of marriage that “devices” in general are a nuisance. In particular my bride spends a lot of her time not only watching but also listening to pod casts, blogs, whatever you call them because I do not. It become very frustrating that many times when I want to ask her or tell her something that she has to pull out her device and pause before I can continue what I was going to say. Sometimes I even get the eye roll 🙄 as she’s digging it out to pause. I know what has an issue with devices because years back she became addicted to Candy Crush. She finally realized how much time she was spending playing that game and she overcame it.
All that being said I live the not only the “screen time” battle but also the “got to listen to this” battle. In addition the conversation never goes well when I bring this up.