McGill prof talks the benefits of unplugging
By William Crooks
Local Journalism Initiative
In a world of constant connectivity, stepping back from screens has grown increasingly appealing, especially for young people navigating the pressures of digital life. Every third Sunday in November, the 24h PAUSE challenge invites teens and young adults across Quebec to participate in a full-day “digital detox.” The event, organized by Capsana with support from the Ministry of Health and Social Services, encourages participants to disconnect from their devices for 24 hours, offering an opportunity to reevaluate their relationship with technology. Since its inception in 2019, the event has drawn over 24,000 participants, fostering a growing awareness of how technology affects daily life.
Dr. Sara M. Grimes, Wolfe Chair in Scientific and Technological Literacy at McGill University, recently discussed the nuances of digital media and youth engagement in an interview with The Record. While Dr. Grimes was not directly involved in creating the 24h PAUSE initiative, she endorses its value, noting how well it resonates with today’s youth. “The challenge speaks to young people,” she said, explaining that 24-hour challenges are already familiar to them as they’re popular among YouTubers and social media influencers. “They’re supposed to be a little uncomfortable, but they’re manageable—bringing it this way really connects with kids.”
Drawing on her research, Dr. Grimes shared her perspectives on both the positive and negative impacts of digital media. Initially, she encountered mostly optimistic views on digital media as it offered young users new ways to connect socially and explore educational content. Over time, however, she observed a shift, with young people becoming more aware of both the advantages and disadvantages of constant connectivity. Dr. Grimes described it as a “complicated field,” noting that young people are now more digitally literate and able to identify both the benefits and pitfalls of their online interactions. She emphasized that the sheer amount of screen exposure today, in schools and at home, has led to a more nuanced understanding among young users.
Among the benefits, social interaction stands out as a significant positive aspect of digital media. Dr. Grimes explained, “Kids can play together on games like Roblox or Fortnite, even if they’re not allowed to physically be in the same place. That bonding experience is gratifying and beneficial for their friendships.” Digital spaces provide valuable social outlets, especially for youth who might lack them outside of school. Yet, the same digital landscape also exposes young users to commercialization and toxic interactions that can affect their self-esteem and overall well-being. “A lot of kids complain about the commercialization of online spaces. Constant ads can create feelings of longing and inadequacy,” she added. Young users are also frequently exposed to offensive comments and behaviour online, and while many know how to block users, Dr. Grimes pointed out that “there’s a grey area of toxicity” that younger children, in particular, might struggle to navigate.
