[Growing up in the digital age]

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Pediatric Health
• Human-Computer Interaction

Background:

• Virtual reality (VR) is increasingly integrated into daily life across all age groups.
• Early and widespread screen use among children and adolescents necessitates a focus on their virtual practices.
• Understanding the impact of modern virtual technologies on young individuals is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the importance of supporting children and teenagers in their engagement with virtual reality.
• To emphasize the role of health professionals in addressing the challenges of virtual reality use in youth.
• To advocate for a combined approach integrating developmental psychology and virtual reality expertise.

Main Methods:

• This study is a conceptual analysis and review of current literature.
• It synthesizes information on virtual reality's impact on child and adolescent development.
• It discusses the potential role and required expertise of health professionals.

Main Results:

• Virtual reality presents unique challenges and opportunities for developing minds.
• Early exposure to screens and virtual environments requires specific guidance and support.
• Health professionals are uniquely positioned to offer evidence-based advice.

Conclusions:

• A proactive approach is needed to support healthy virtual reality engagement in youth.
• Health professionals require specialized knowledge of virtual reality to effectively guide young users.
• Integrating developmental insights with virtual reality understanding is key to promoting well-being.