What impact can technology have on children's development?

The choice highlighting that technology can decrease social interactions is valid because increased screen time often leads to children spending less time engaging in face-to-face communication, which is crucial for developing social skills. When children are absorbed in devices, they may miss opportunities to build relationships, navigate social cues, and develop empathy, all of which are essential components of social development.

Technological reliance can create barriers, leading to isolation or less personal engagement with peers and family. While technology can connect people virtually, it often does not substitute for in-person interactions, which are foundational for emotional and social growth in children.

Other options such as encouraging physical activity or improving sleep patterns contrast with studies that show excessive screen time is linked with sedentary behavior and can interfere with sleep quality due to stimulating content or blue light exposure. Enhancing emotional intelligence may also not directly result from passive technology use, as authentic emotional growth typically requires active interpersonal experiences.