In the digital age, raising and educating children from the Millennial generation, who rely heavily on technology for communication, play, and socialization, poses a significant challenge. One of the key challenges faced by this generation is the potential brain damage caused by exposure to pornography.
A foundation that researched the behavior of children, particularly students in grades IV to VI of elementary school, from 2008 to early 2010 in the Jabodetabek area, found that a staggering 67 percent of them had seen or accessed pornography. Shockingly, 37 percent of these children accessed it from the comfort of their own homes.
Moreover, parents often remain unaware of or oblivious to what their children are exposed to through various child-friendly devices such as TVs, video games, smartphones, and the internet.
So, how does pornography actually damage a child's brain?
Renowned American brain surgeon, Dr. Donald Hilton Jr., once stated that pornography is, in fact, a disease because it alters the structure and function of the brain, effectively causing damage.
The most affected part is the Prefrontal Cortex (PFC), which impairs a child's ability to plan, control desires and emotions, make decisions, and perform various executive brain functions that distinguish humans from animals.
Mark Kastleman, author of the book "Drugs of the New Millennium," aptly calls pornography "visual crack cocaine" or "drugs through the eyes." Kastleman also highlights that addiction to pornography in children is not accidental; it's part of the porn industry's deliberate targeting of children as their consumer base.
The traps set are diverse. For instance, they offer it for free initially, for an extended period, much like a drug dealer offering a sample. Once the addiction takes hold, the child will invariably seek more. The crucial difference is that addiction to drugs is often visible, whereas addiction to pornography frequently remains hidden, existing primarily as a craving.
Signs of a Child Addicted to Pornography:
Signs of pornography addiction include spending excessive time with technology, such as the internet, video games, or smartphones. Children become irritable, avoid eye contact when spoken to, engage in arguments, daydream, experience sudden drops in academic performance, and become withdrawn.
These children often desire to break free from this addiction but are unable to because no one knows about it or can help them.
What Can Parents Do to Address the Challenges Posed by Millennial Children?
Here are some tips from Elly Risman, a psychologist:
1. Parents should stay informed about their children's development and maintain ongoing awareness. Recognize that each child's needs are different. Communication, appreciation, and discipline should be tailored accordingly.
2. Understand the specific needs of your children and proactively guide them. Explain, accompany, and discuss the consequences of their actions. Rules should be established collaboratively between parents and children.
3. Parents should be willing to continuously learn, especially about technology (IT). For instance, consider becoming friends with your children on Facebook or Twitter.
In conclusion, addressing the challenges of raising Millennial children in the digital age, particularly regarding the potential harm caused by pornography, requires vigilance, communication, and ongoing education for parents. Understanding the unique needs of each child is crucial in navigating this complex landscape.
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