LIKE is an IndieFlix Original documentary that explores the impact of social media on our lives and the effects of technology on the brain. The goal of the film is to inspire us to self-regulate. Social media is a tool and social platforms are a place to connect, share, and care … but is that what is really happening?
Description:
LIKE highlights the issues of creating external affirmation through likes, dysmorphic tendencies due to filters, and the cognitive impairment (briefly) that occurs with these devices. Following the film there was a panel discussion with the film’s producers, a psychologist, and Common Sense media representative
Review: The film was on point and worth watching. In fact, many of the issues discussed in the documentary are concerns that I address daily in my practice and with Digital Citizen Academy.
However, one complaint I had with LIKE was the lack of suggestions it offered as to how to transmit this knowledge to children. How do parents teach this? How do we manage virtual learning?
Suggestions: Sharing this film is a must. School mandates and/or community forums through churches or youth organizations would be a great way to do this. PTA groups and after school programs are also good outlets. Links on school and community websites providing access to the film would be ideal.
And after introducing the students to the film, educators can engage the students directly for suggestions as to how to solve the problem. Kids need to understand why something is important. They need to understand how something works. (Telling someone that they can’t step off a crosswalk onto the pavement would not work if they didn’t understand that a speeding car may hit them.) Finally, students must be included in discussions about a solution. Children will not respond if they believe their ideas are being ignored.
Dr. Lisa
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