Finding the “Sweet Spot”: Navigating Digital Wellness in Education
- Ad Astra Research Institute
- Jan 13
- 3 min read
By Ad Astra Research Institute
In a world predicted to change more in the next ten years than it has in the past century, the intersection of technology and mental health has become one of the most critical frontiers for educators and parents alike. As digital tools increasingly shape how students learn, connect, and grow, understanding how to use technology in healthy, purposeful ways is no longer optional—it is essential.
In a recent episode of the Future Inside podcast, host Dean Cantu sat down with Dr. Jennifer Laffier, Assistant Professor of Education at Ontario Tech University and a leading expert in mental health in the digital age. Drawing on her background in psychology and creative arts therapy, Dr. Laffier shared powerful insights on how we can flourish in a digital world without losing our humanity.
Below are the key takeaways from their conversation on digital wellness, the “Goldilocks Effect,” and what the future of education may hold.
The “Goldilocks Effect” of Technology
We often hear about the harmful effects of technology—social media fueling anxiety, smartphones distracting students, or screen time reducing attention spans. While these concerns are valid, Dr. Laffier encourages a more balanced and nuanced perspective known as the Goldilocks Effect.
The Goldilocks Effect suggests that both extremes—too much technology use and too little—can negatively impact mental health and development.
Too much technology, when used without purpose or boundaries, can increase stress, anxiety, and disconnection.
Too little technology can leave individuals without essential digital skills, limiting academic, professional, and social opportunities.
The goal is to find the “sweet spot”—a balanced relationship with technology that enhances learning, connection, and well-being rather than undermining it.
Understanding Problematic Internet Use (PIU)
While balance is the ideal, Dr. Laffier emphasizes the importance of recognizing Problematic Internet Use (PIU). Although PIU is not currently classified as a formal clinical diagnosis, it is widely recognized as a mental health concern characterized by unhealthy or excessive technology use.
Common signs of PIU include:
Constant Rumination: Thinking about technology even when not using it.
Impaired Focus: Difficulty concentrating on schoolwork or responsibilities due to digital distractions.
Impulsive Behavior: Loss of control over when and how technology is used.
Recognizing these signs early can help parents and educators intervene before habits become harmful.
One Size Does Not Fit All: The Importance of Individual Needs
One of Dr. Laffier’s most important insights is that blanket rules—such as total cell phone bans in schools—often overlook individual needs. Her research highlights the importance of moderating variables, which explain why technology affects students differently.
For example:
Higher Risk: Adolescent girls between the ages of 13 and 15 are statistically more vulnerable to mental health challenges related to excessive social media use.
Potential Benefit: Students experiencing loneliness or those diagnosed with ADD/ADHD may benefit from certain online communities or gaming environments that offer connection and stimulation.
Dr. Laffier argues that current digital citizenship models, which primarily focus on safety and responsibility, must evolve to include digital wellness from a psychological perspective. Rather than enforcing universal rules, schools should tailor approaches to individual student needs.
The Classroom of the Future
Looking ahead, what should education look like in the next 25 years?
Dr. Laffier notes that today’s students are accustomed to “flow states”—deep engagement often experienced in gaming and digital media, where time seems to pass effortlessly. When classrooms fail to offer similar engagement, students disengage.
To meet this challenge, the classroom of the future must prioritize:
Emotional Intelligence – Teaching self-awareness and self-regulation so students can manage their attention, emotions, and screen use.
Balanced Pedagogy – Using technology intentionally while also creating space for play-based learning, creativity, and face-to-face connection.
Responsive Education – Developing student profiles to better understand individual learning styles, goals, and wellness needs.
Final Thoughts
Digital wellness is not just something we teach students—it is something educators must practice and model themselves. As Dr. Laffier emphasizes, teachers who cultivate healthy relationships with technology are better equipped to guide students toward balance.
In an era of rapid change and constant connectivity, the true challenge is not avoiding technology—but learning to use it wisely. Finding that “sweet spot” where innovation supports well-being is the key to helping students not just succeed, but truly flourish.
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