Balancing Technology Engagement and Quality Family Moments: Parents' Views

Abstract

This study aims to explore parents' perspectives on the balance between technology use and quality family time. In the current digital era, the use of technology, such as smartphones and computers, has become an integral part of families' daily routines. However, over-reliance on technology can disrupt social interactions and emotional relationships among family members. This study employs a qualitative approach using semi-structured interviews involving five parents selected through purposive sampling. Data were collected both face-to-face and online and analyzed using thematic analysis. The findings identify three main themes: challenges in managing technology use within the family, parents' strategies in balancing technology use and family time, and the impact of imbalance on family well-being. Identified challenges include time constraints, work pressure, and screen addiction among children. Parents' strategies include setting screen-free times, engaging in technology-free family activities, and implementing flexible household rules. The effects of technological imbalance include disrupted emotional relationships, impaired children's social development, declining parental executive function, and increased media use among children. This study emphasizes the need for active parental involvement, self-control, and a structured approach in building a balance between technology use and quality family time. Its implications suggest that these findings can serve as a reference for parents, educators, and policymakers in efforts to support family well-being in the digital era.