Supporting Families Through Policies: Effective and Recommended Policies for Communication Technology, Digital Interventions, and Remote Work

Among the megatrends the United Nations identified in 2020, technology strongly influences how families live. Communication technology, digital interventions, and remote work require families to integrate technology into their activities, use digital tools responsibly, and protect themselves from technology-related risks. Family-oriented policies are needed to guide families in these tasks because the family represents the primary nurturing institution for the youngest generations. As professionals working with families are a source of support for families, they need to be aware of the current and desirable policies to promote safe and successful technology use. This paper illustrates existing policies supporting children and parents in relation to technology worldwide and recommends policymakers’ actions to respond to technology-related challenges. The knowledge provided in the current paper will be useful for illustrating active and future policies to create a safer world for families, where technology can be used for personal development while minimizing its risks.

Duke Scholars

Author Jennifer Lansford Sanford School of Public Policy