The Impact of Digital Devices on Family Connection and Belonging in Australian Households

The proliferation of digital devices such as smartphones and tablets has transformed the way families interact, communicate, and build relationships. While these technologies offer numerous benefits, including instant communication and access to information, they also pose challenges to the traditional dynamics of family life. In Australia, where digital connectivity is widespread, understanding the impact of these devices on familial connection and belonging is crucial. In this article I  explore the multifaceted effects of digital device usage on Australian families, drawing upon evidence-based research to analyse the implications for both parents and children.

Digital Device Usage in Australian Families

Australia boasts a high rate of digital device usage, with a significant majority of households owning multiple devices. A study by the eSafety Commissioner revealed that 96% of Australian parents have some form of internet connection at home, facilitating widespread access to digital technologies (eSafety Commissioner, 2019). Children are introduced to digital devices at increasingly younger ages, with some engaging with technology as early as eight months old (Herald Sun, 2024). The Growing Up Digital Australia report indicated that more than four in five children own at least one screen-based device, and on average, children possess three digital devices at home (UNSW Newsroom, 2021).   

Impact on Family Connection

The prevalence of digital devices has led to a phenomenon known as “phubbing,” where individuals prioritise their attention with devices over in-person interactions. This behavior can erode the quality of family relationships, leading to feelings of neglect and reduced emotional connection. A systematic review highlighted that parental phubbing significantly disrupts parent-child relationships, contributing to higher levels of mobile phone addiction among adolescents (Lin et al., 2024). Furthermore, excessive screen time can diminish opportunities for meaningful family interactions, as devices often serve as distractions during shared activities such as meals and leisure time.

Sense of Belonging and Purpose

Digital devices can both enhance and hinder a family’s sense of belonging. On one hand, technology facilitates communication with extended family members and access to supportive online communities, fostering a sense of connectedness. On the other hand, overreliance on digital interactions can lead to social isolation and a diminished sense of belonging within the immediate family unit. A study exploring the relationship between social media use and loneliness among adolescents found that excessive engagement with digital platforms is associated with increased feelings of loneliness and decreased well-being (Australian Journal of Psychology, 2021).

Effects on Children

Children’s extensive use of digital devices has raised concerns about their social, emotional, and behavioural development. Research from Deakin University indicates that children aged four to six who spend prolonged periods using digital technologies are more likely to experience social, emotional, and behavioral difficulties (Deakin University, 2025). Moreover, the phenomenon of “still face syndrome,” where children fail to develop normal facial expressions due to limited face-to-face interactions, has been linked to excessive screen time (Courier Mail, 2024). These findings underscore the importance of balancing digital engagement with real-world interactions to support healthy child development.

Parental Challenges and Strategies

Parents face the challenge of managing their children’s digital device usage while also modeling appropriate behavior themselves. The eSafety Commissioner’s research highlights that parents often struggle with enforcing screen time limits and ensuring online safety for their children (eSafety Commissioner, 2019). Strategies employed by parents include denying access to certain devices, setting usage boundaries, and creating family tech plans to manage technology use effectively (Digital Child, 2025). However, these approaches require consistency and open communication to be effective.

Positive Aspects and Opportunities

Despite the challenges, digital devices also offer opportunities to strengthen family bonds when used mindfully. Families can leverage technology to engage in shared activities, such as watching educational content together or participating in interactive games that promote collaboration. Additionally, digital platforms can serve as tools for learning and development, providing access to resources that support children’s education and creativity. The key lies in intentional and balanced use, ensuring that technology complements rather than replaces direct family interactions.

The integration of digital devices into Australian family life presents a complex interplay of benefits and challenges. While technology can facilitate connection and access to information, it also has the potential to disrupt family dynamics, leading to reduced emotional bonds and a diminished sense of belonging. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort from parents to model healthy digital behaviors, establish clear boundaries, and prioritise quality time with their children. By fostering an environment where technology serves as a tool rather than a barrier, families can navigate the digital age while maintaining strong connections, a sense of belonging, and shared purpose.

Here are 6 ways families can change their behaviour to reduce the negative impacts of digital devices:

• Establish Device-Free Zones

Create spaces such as the dining table or bedrooms where no phones or tablets are allowed to promote face-to-face connection and alternative activities.

• Set Consistent Screen Time Limits

Agree on daily or weekly time limits for device use to prevent overuse and encourage offline activities.

• Model Healthy Technology Habits

Parents can demonstrate balanced device use themselves, showing children how to be present and mindful.

• Schedule Family Tech Breaks

Plan regular times when everyone unplugs together, such as an hour in the evening or a “digital detox” weekend.

• Use Technology Intentionally

Choose to engage in shared online activities (like educational games or video calls with relatives) that strengthen bonds instead of isolating family members.

• Talk Openly About Device Use and Feelings

Have regular conversations about how screens impact mood, relationships, and wellbeing to build awareness and shared understanding.

References

Australian Journal of Psychology. (2021). Belonging and loneliness in cyberspace: impacts of social media on adolescents. Retrieved from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/pdf/10.1080/00049530.2021.1898914

Courier Mail. (2024). Chilling new problem with having too much screen time. Retrieved from https://www.couriermail.com.au/lifestyle/still-face-syndrome-hits-children-raised-on-digital-devices/news-story/ea946b19dd558ed030dedd060c375c34

Deakin University. (2025). New research shows digital technology is linked to reduced wellbeing in young kids. Retrieved from https://www.deakin.edu.au/research/research-news-and-publications/articles/new-research-shows-digital-technology-is-linked-to-reduced-wellbeing-in-young-kids-so-what-can-parents-do

Digital Child. (2025). Parents and screen time: are you a ‘contract maker’ or an ‘access denier’ with your child? Retrieved from https://digitalchild.org.au/parents-and-screen-time-are-you-a-contract-maker-or-an-access-denier-with-your-child/

eSafety Commissioner. (2019). Parenting in the digital age. Retrieved from https://www.esafety.gov.au/sites/default/files/2019-07/eSafety%20Research%20Parenting%20Digital%20Age.pdf

Herald Sun. (2024). ‘New normal’: Babies using tech at eight-months old. Retrieved from https://www.heraldsun.com.au/victoria-education/landmark-study-generates-online-hub-thats-helping-kids-from-birth-to-eightyearsold-use-tech-safely/news-story/33f45a6f12990c3090a69fa08d095303

Lin, C., Qing, Z., Yan, C., Tang, S., & Wang, C. (2024). The Relationship Between Parental Phubbing and Adolescents’ Depressive Symptoms: a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Adolescent Research Review.

UNSW Newsroom. (2021). Children more distracted by digital devices in the home, parents say. Retrieved from https://www.unsw.edu.au/newsroom/news/2021/04/children-more-distracted-by-digital-devices-in-the-home–parents

Vision Christian Media. (2025). The Impact of Digital Devices on Family Relationships. Retrieved from https://vision.org.au/read/articles/the-impact-of-digital-devices-on-family-relationships/