The relationship between technology use and adolescent well-being is indeed… complicated. But this episode is for you if you are suffering from complexity fatigue. Dr. Katie Davis, Director of the University of Washington Digital Youth Lab, delivers compelling guidance that cuts through the noise without compromising the research. This is no small feat!

Erin talks to Dr. Katie Davis about:

• A guiding framework to help you discern – When does technology support adolescent development, and when does it not?
• Why paying attention to platform design really shapes the answer to that question.
• Practical strategies for helping teens develop more mindful tech use.
• Why being a “good enough” digital parent is often just what teens need.

Resources Mentioned in this Episode:

• Dr. Katie Davis’ website
• UW Digital Youth Lab
• Technology’s Child: Digital Media’s Role in the Ages and Stages of Growing Up
• “Design Matters: Why We Should Resist Using Social Media Shorthand,” Dr. Katie Davis
• Community Supported, Self-Directed Media Use, Dr. Katie Davis

Dr. Katie Davis

Dr. Katie Davis is Associate Professor at the University of Washington (UW) and Director of the UW Digital Youth Lab. For nearly twenty years, she has been researching the impact of digital technologies on young people’s learning, development, and well-being. Dr. Davis has published more than 70 academic publications and is the author of three books exploring technology’s role in young people’s lives. In her latest book, Technology’s Child: Digital Media’s Role in the Ages and Stages of Growing Up, she brings clarity to what we know about technology’s role in child development and provides guidance on how to help children of all ages make the most of their digital experiences. Dr. Davis holds two master’s degrees and a doctorate in Human Development and Education from Harvard Graduate School of Education.

You can learn more about the book and sign up for Dr. Davis’ newsletter here: https://katiedavisresearch.com/