A growing body of research in child psychology warns Thai families that it’s not only kids’ screen time that matters. Parental distraction with smartphones and tablets can harm a child’s emotional, social, and cognitive growth. As smartphones become ubiquitous—from Bangkok’s busy streets to rural communities—the risk of “technoference” in parent-child interactions is drawing attention from Thai educators and health professionals.
New studies show that when parents frequently check devices, children may miss important language-building moments and exhibit higher levels of distress or difficulty with self-regulation. The message is clear: parental engagement matters as much as child screen time, and consistent, mindful interaction supports healthy development.
This issue resonates in Thailand’s fast-paced digital landscape. Data from UNICEF Thailand indicates rising digital literacy among children, but also increased exposure to online risks when adults are absorbed by screens. In everyday Thai life—while waiting for meals at a restaurant, commuting on the BTS, or scrolling in living rooms—parents’ device use can become a model for children, shaping the next generation’s habits.
A 2025 study used infrared imaging to observe how mothers interact with infants. When mothers were distracted by devices, infants showed higher stress indicators and less responsive social exchanges. Researchers emphasize that responsive interactions are essential for early regulation and development, and that digital distraction can disrupt these moments, with observable signs in both behavior and physiology.
Research from other contexts aligns with Thai findings. Studies from American and Asian researchers report higher teen depression risk when parents report heavy personal social media use. The consistent thread is that adult behavior serves as a powerful teacher for children, particularly in the crucial early years.
Experts highlight why this matters for language development. The first five years are critical for communication skill building. When parents are absorbed by screens, they are less available to answer questions, provide prompts, or model conversational structure. Early childhood specialists in Thailand warn that reduced parental responsiveness can contribute to language delays and emotional challenges as children grow.
The impact extends beyond infancy. The modeling effect means children imitate adult screen use, which can perpetuate a cycle of disengagement and over-reliance on digital devices. In Thai families, where respect for elders and observational learning are central, this dynamic can be especially influential.
Systematic reviews show that parental device use around young children generally reduces sensitivity and responsiveness, though some negative emotions may be temporary. The cumulative effect, when technoference becomes routine, can influence long-term habits and self-control.
Still, experts advocate balanced technology use rather than outright bans. In a knowledge-based economy, reasonable, intentional tech use supports digital literacy without eroding family bonds. Thai families can adopt a “digital sabai sabai” approach—calm, deliberate integration of technology into family life.
Practical steps for Thai households:
- Create device-free times, especially during meals and before bedtime.
- Use a dedicated place for phones at home, such as a device basket, to minimize interruptions.
- Turn off nonessential notifications and consider periods of digital downtime.
- Embrace analog alternatives, like wall calendars and handwritten notes, and nurture non-screen family rituals, such as cooking together or playing traditional Thai games.
Healthcare professionals in Bangkok stress the value of reconnecting face-to-face. Eye contact, storytelling, and shared activities build resilience and well-being. Public health leaders call for inclusive campaigns to raise awareness across urban and rural communities about mindful device use.
Looking ahead, Thai researchers anticipate deeper exploration into how digital culture interacts with family life and community norms. As digital literacy initiatives expand, messages about mindful technology use can reach all segments of society, from high-rise apartments to village homes, reinforcing healthy development for Thai children.
Actionable steps for readers:
- Establish a daily device-free window for family interaction.
- Discuss responsible technology use with children and model the behavior you want to see.
- Involve all members in setting household tech rules, such as a dinner-time device basket.
- Create regular non-digital family activities to strengthen bonds and support language and emotional development.
For further context and evidence, researchers note:
- Research by respected institutions highlights the link between parental device use and child development.
- Systematic reviews on technoference underscore the importance of parental responsiveness.
- Public health organizations emphasize the need for balanced digital literacy that protects young children.