My son is 17 years and should write 11th class final exams in feb 2024. He is addicted to mobile & distracted from studies . He roams around with friends till late night. When i get strict , seize his mobile and tell him to study and write exams before getting the mobile back, he black mails me saying he will not write exams, he will discontinue studies, go work and earn etc. what is the solution?

Ans: When you want him to Stop using mobile or screen,try to first give him equally reinforcing activities or situations where he is more engaged productively. It should not be necessarily academic related things initially. He can take care of daily household chores or some responsibilities which are helping him to be engaged. Appreciate his efforts incase you see him doing that. Some time we need to change our ways of dealing with situation to get them do what you want. You can take him with you for buying things like grocery , in short you can involve him in daily activities ,games etc.
Increase his focus on activities etc and then gradually set his academic goals clear.

Ans: Kindly connect with a developmental paediatrician to rule out 'technology addiction'.

Ans: Put him on self awareness and control using some token strategy.
Every right behaviour get him a token and negative behaviour token can be kept back.
When using this strategy, you need to be mindful by giving token only for right behaviour. He can collect it and exchange the same to get a reward from you.

Ans: Most of the time when they have screen addiction,it's difficult for them to develop intrest in the alternative skills or studies. This can be due to less attention skills due to screen time. See what is he interested in apart from the screen addiction, help him develop hobbies which are of his interest and it can be sports too. This will help him to focus better on his studies too.

Ans: Pravin Sir,

Addition to electronic gadgets is one of the problems, some parents face nowadays.

First of all, approach a good Professional / Qualified Student Counsellor along with your son in your locality. Make sure, the Counsellor has Psychology Background also. There might be some changes. If needed, you can approach a Psychologist, having specialised knowledge in Counselling the children of your son's age.

Follow-up counselling sessions with the counsellors are also important until he changes his attitude.

If possible, visit his college and request for couselling your son. Almost all colleges have counsellors who can help.

Some other tips:

1) Tell him, he also can become YouTuber. But ask him what plans he has to become a YouTuber?
2) Switching off WiFi & being authoritarian will not work.
3) Communicate or interact with him politely whenever possible.
4) Tell him he can use his mobile but, at the same time should focus on his studies as well.
5) Make sure, atmosophere at home is good. Such as, parents also should avoid spending too much time on Electronic Gadgets. Most of the children imitate only their parents.
6) If possible, tell him to participate in physical activities as well.

All the BEST for Your Bright Future.

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