I think you’re on track with your “threatening questions.” Maturity comes from practice as much as biology, just as regression comes from lack of practice and disruption by biological problems. Obviously, we won’t stop using the devices, but we can limit them with children to help them learn self-control. Have to admit this has only worked so-so with my kids. It is a source of conflict daily, plus regular dishonesty on their part. My oldest only started being honest about it when I stopped limiting him-because he was using the computer as a tool instead of a toy. The middle one thinks he should have the same privileges, though he exhibits almost no self-discipline.

The atmosphere in our society is not conducive to self-control. More focus on balance will be required. More of a conscious effort to learn self-control. This is true of adults as well. Some people are already good at this, but it needs to become a cultural norm.

Is there anything to be done about decreased self-control? Obviously, we are not going to revert back to using tools that are more difficult or take more time-not most of us. It’s also not good to take away the technological, since familiarity from childhood makes it possible to use technological tools quicker in the adult world. My kids’ childhood looks nothing like mine, but I do restrict the tech toys some and push the kids to do things in their own surroundings. We have had fights, and my middle one has little self-control still (partly do to asthma and oxygen issues, I think). I think the answer will be a stronger focus on balance than was necessary in the past. A more conscious effort to promote self-control. Some people already do this. It needs to become a cultural norm. Not so good at it myself.