Global Survey Launched to Examine Teen and Parent Perspectives on Screen Time

The Parent Coaching Institute (PCI) has launched a comprehensive global survey project examining teen and parental perspectives on screen time and social media usage across multiple continents. The research initiative targets participants from the United States, Canada, the Middle East, and Europe to gather critical insights about digital media consumption patterns and family communication challenges surrounding technology use.

Gloria DeGaetano, PCI founder and CEO, emphasized the research significance by noting that current discussions about screen time's impact on adolescent mental health frequently lack understanding of teen preferences and resilience strategies. The surveys specifically aim to bridge this knowledge gap by directly engaging both teenagers aged 11-18 and their parents in the research process. This dual-perspective approach allows researchers to compare and contrast viewpoints from different generations within the same family units.

Christina Gika, a PCI Certified Parent Coach® and instructor, highlighted the project's primary objective of addressing communication barriers between parents and teenagers regarding technology use. By collecting comprehensive data from diverse geographical regions and cultural backgrounds, the research intends to help families navigate modern media challenges while preserving strong interpersonal connections. The survey methodology ensures that both teen voices and parental concerns receive equal consideration in the findings.

The research instruments will explore multiple dimensions of screen time, including detailed examination of teen digital behaviors, media preferences, and parental decision-making processes regarding technology limits and monitoring. Researchers anticipate the collected data will provide nuanced insights into effective strategies for managing technology use within family contexts, potentially revealing patterns that transcend cultural and geographical boundaries.

Survey results are scheduled for compilation and public release in Spring 2025, offering valuable guidance for parents, educators, and family support professionals dealing with digital media challenges. PCI, recognized by Life Coach Magazine for its top-tier parent coach training, continues supporting professionals through its Parent Coach Certification® program. The organization's evidence-based strategies and well-researched coaching framework aim to create greater awareness and practical support for families navigating complex technological interactions in daily life.