Smartphones threaten to power down family relationships

Increased smartphone usage is starting to endanger family relationships. A survey found that the average American parents would rather spend some eight hours a day on their phones than talking with their kids.

Numerous studies have highlighted how pervasive smartphones are among teens, but parents can't seem to put them down either. According to Common Sense Media, the average American parents spend seven hours and 43 minutes glued to screens every day.

Studies have shown that parents are also more irritable when they are interrupted while on their devices causing some to react harshly to their children. CGTN’s Karina Huber reports that part of the problem is that they can't ignore the pop-ups on their phones.

Beyond the emotional impact, it's also taking a toll on their growth. Experts say in the early years, face-to-face interaction is critical, and is the primary way children learn. They say putting a device between parents and the child on a regular basis could hinder them from achieving developmental milestones and could have a lasting impact.

(CGTN)