4 menacing realities impacting kids

Published: Monday, August 25, 2025 at 11:15 am

Survey Reveals Parental Concerns About Childhood Experiences

A recent survey, published in the *New York Times*, asked parents to identify what they wished "had never been invented" regarding their children's upbringing. The responses highlighted significant parental anxieties surrounding several modern influences. The survey results pinpointed four key areas of concern.

The first major concern, cited by 55% of parents, was social media. This category encompasses platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, TikTok, and Twitter X. Parents expressed worries about the negative impacts of these platforms on children's mental and social development. Concerns included increased rates of anxiety, depression, and sleep disruption. The survey also highlighted the risks of cyberbullying, sexual harassment, and the potential for social media to negatively impact academic performance and contribute to suicidal thoughts. The addictive nature of these platforms, trapping children in endless scrolling, was also a significant concern.

The second area of concern, cited by 57% of parents, was alcohol. The survey highlighted the dangers of alcohol consumption among children, including the risk of developing lifelong alcohol dependence. The survey also noted the increased risk of car crashes, drowning, and assaults associated with underage drinking. A more recent discovery is the link between alcohol consumption and cancer, with alcohol being identified as a preventable cause of the disease. The US Surgeon General has stated that alcohol is responsible for approximately 100,000 cancer cases and 20,000 cancer deaths annually in the United States.

BNN's Perspective:

The survey results paint a concerning picture of the challenges facing children today. While technology and societal shifts offer undeniable benefits, the survey underscores the need for a balanced approach. Parents, educators, and policymakers must work together to mitigate the negative impacts of social media and alcohol consumption, ensuring children can thrive in a safe and supportive environment.

Keywords: social media, alcohol, children, parenting, survey, mental health, addiction, cyberbullying, cancer, risks, development, anxiety, depression, sleep disruption, underage drinking

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