Many of us are aware of the concerns for children spending too much time on video games, social sites or internet use. Did you know though that the average families owns 12 media devices? Digital cameras, iPods, cell phones, video game players, high def TV and laptops are some of the devices according to Media Post in Nov. '07.

In contrast, when people are talking face-to-face, they are learning to observe and read expressions, notice changes. Baby-mother gaze has been studied with slight changes detected at 60 per minute! In couples the same observation and reading is important to stay connected and learn to ask questions about emotions and feelings.

What happens then when we are looking at a device? We miss the signals even if  written or sound cues are there. While mind reading is not healthy for relationships, being aware of visual signals is necessary for nurture and connection. F2F is the most information rich communication for couples and families.

To gazing,

Barbara Massey LMFT

ParkPlace Counseling Center

Medford Or

541-245-9610 ext. 3

bmasseypcc@hotmail.com