The Role of Algorithms in Altering Children's Brain Function

One evening, Carla noticed something had shifted with her son Lucas. Over the past few months, he had become quieter at the dinner table, preferring the company of his phone. He seemed distracted, his eyes always glued to the screen, scrolling endlessly through videos and memes. What concerned Carla the most wasn’t just the time spent on social media—it was the change in his behavior. His interests were fading, and his mood had become unpredictable.

“Hey Lucas, can we talk for a minute?” Carla asked, gently placing her hand on his arm.

Lucas sighed but put down his phone, “Sure, what’s up?”

Carla wasn’t sure where to begin. She didn’t want to sound accusatory. After all, she knew Lucas wasn’t doing anything wrong. He wasn’t misbehaving or breaking rules. But the algorithm behind the screen? That was a different story.

The Invisible Influence of Algorithms

“Do you ever feel like your phone just won’t let you stop?” Carla asked, trying to understand what was going on in his mind.

“Sometimes,” Lucas admitted. “I don’t know, I start watching one video, then there’s another one, and another. It’s like I can’t stop.”

Carla nodded. “It’s not just you, you know. These apps are designed to do that. The more time you spend on them, the more they learn about what you like. Then they show you more of the same stuff to keep you hooked.”

“What do you mean?” Lucas looked curious.

“The apps use something called an algorithm. It tracks what you watch, what you like, and even how long you spend on each post. Then it gives you more of the same, so you keep scrolling. It’s designed to make you want more.”

Lucas leaned back, processing what his mom was saying. He hadn’t thought of it that way before. He always assumed he was in control. But now, he realized it wasn’t entirely true.

How Algorithms Shape the Brain

Carla continued, “The problem is, when you’re always getting that instant feedback—those likes, comments, and new videos—it triggers a part of your brain that wants more. It makes it hard to focus on anything else because your brain starts to expect that constant stimulation.”

“So, it’s not just me being lazy or distracted?” Lucas asked, sounding a bit relieved.

“Not at all,” Carla said. “It’s not your fault. The apps are built to keep you there as long as possible. They know how to manipulate your brain’s reward system.”

Carla explained how social media platforms are designed to trigger the brain’s release of dopamine—the pleasure chemical. Each time Lucas engaged with new content, his brain received a small hit of dopamine, reinforcing the behavior and keeping him scrolling. Over time, this rewiring of his brain made it harder for him to enjoy other activities, like reading or playing sports.

“But it’s not permanent,” Carla reassured him. “You can take control back.”

A Plan for Balance

Together, they came up with a plan. Instead of blaming Lucas or punishing him for using his phone, they decided to work together to find a balance.

“I’m not saying you can’t use social media,” Carla said. “But maybe we can limit the time you spend on it each day. We could try setting a timer, and once it goes off, we do something else—like go for a walk or play a game.”

Lucas nodded. “That sounds fair.”

“And I want you to understand why we’re doing this. It’s not just about using your phone less—it’s about giving your brain a break. You’ll start to feel better once you’re not always chasing the next video or post.”

They agreed on designated “tech-free” times, especially before bed, when Lucas would put his phone away to help his brain unwind from the constant stimulation. Carla also encouraged him to spend more time doing things he enjoyed offline, like playing basketball or drawing.

The Takeaway for Parents

Carla’s conversation with Lucas was a turning point. It wasn’t about blaming Lucas for being “addicted” to his phone or making him feel guilty. Instead, they worked together to understand how social media platforms and their algorithms were influencing his behavior.

For other parents, the lesson is clear: your child’s relationship with social media isn’t entirely their fault. The platforms are designed to keep them hooked. The goal isn’t to blame them—or yourself—but to help them regain control by understanding how these systems work.

• Have an Honest Conversation: Talk to your child about the algorithms behind social media. Let them know it’s not a personal failing but a system designed to keep them engaged.

• Create Tech-Free Times Together: Work with your child to set boundaries around social media use. Make it a team effort rather than imposing strict rules.

• Encourage Offline Activities: Help your child rediscover the joy of real-world activities that bring lasting satisfaction, not just fleeting dopamine hits.

Conclusion

Algorithms are powerful tools designed to monopolize attention, especially for developing brains. But by having open conversations and creating strategies together, parents can help their children like Lucas regain balance in their lives. It’s not about blame—it’s about understanding and taking back control.