Praneeta Mahajan
Hamilton, September 21, 2023
In an era marked by an explosion of choices, children and teenagers find themselves navigating a labyrinth of decisions daily. From school and extracurricular activities to social media and entertainment, the modern youth face an unprecedented array of options. This abundance of choices can lead to a phenomenon known as decision fatigue, which affects their cognitive abilities, emotional well-being, and overall development.
Columbia University’s researcher, Sheena Iyengar states in her research that children make 3500 decisions on a daily basis and by the time we are adults, we make an average of 35,000 decisions per day.
The Burden of Choice
Decision fatigue, though commonly associated with adults, is a cognitive state that can affect individuals of all ages, including children and teenagers. It occurs when a person becomes mentally exhausted from making a multitude of decisions over some time.
Dr Sarah Reynolds, a child psychologist, highlights the significance of understanding this concept in the context of young minds, “Children and teenagers are not immune to decision fatigue. They are particularly vulnerable because their brains are still developing, and they lack the decision-making experience that adults have.”
The Academic Maze
One of the primary areas where decision fatigue takes its toll on children and teenagers is academics. From selecting courses and deciding on study schedules to managing homework and extracurricular activities, the educational landscape can be overwhelming.
Dr Emily Carter, an education expert, explains, “Students are often juggling a multitude of academic choices, which can lead to mental exhaustion. This can impact their ability to focus, retain information, and make informed academic decisions.”
The After-School Dilemma
Extracurricular activities, while beneficial, can also contribute to decision fatigue.
Children are encouraged to explore their interests, but the sheer number of options can be daunting. Sarah Turner, an author specialising in child development, emphasises, “Parents and caregivers play a crucial role in helping children prioritise their interests. It is essential to strike a balance between allowing exploration and preventing over-commitment.”
Media and Screen-Time Quandary
With the advent of the digital age, screen time has become a significant source of decision fatigue for young people. The vast array of content available online means children and teenagers must constantly choose what to watch, play, or engage with.
Dr. James Mitchell, a child psychiatrist, notes, “Excessive screen time can lead to indecision, impulsivity, and cognitive overload. Parents should establish clear limits and guidelines for screen time to help mitigate these effects.”
Navigating Daily Choices
Even seemingly mundane daily choices, such as what to wear, what to eat, or when to go to bed, can accumulate and contribute to decision fatigue in children and teenagers. Many experts and researchers highlight the need for parents to simplify routine decisions by offering structured choices. For instance, you can ask your child if they want cereal or toast for breakfast rather than leaving the entire menu open.
Decision fatigue in children and teenagers can manifest as irritability, poor concentration, and emotional exhaustion. Parents and educators can help by creating a structured environment that reduces the need for constant decision-making.
Lucy Mitchell, Author of ‘Navigating Adolescence’ states, “Teenagers are especially vulnerable to decision fatigue due to their developing brains and the social pressures they face. Encourage open communication and provide a supportive network to help them cope with the challenges of growing up.”
Mitigating Decision Fatigue in Young Minds
To address decision fatigue in children and teenagers, experts recommend the following strategies:
- Establishing predictable daily routines can help reduce the number of choices children need to make about their daily activities.
- Offer children a limited number of choices rather than overwhelming them with options. This can apply to meal planning, clothing choices, and more.
- Encourage children to prioritise their extracurricular activities and commitments based on their interests and goals.
- Provide guidance and information for important decisions, such as selecting academic courses or career paths.
- Set clear limits on screen time and help children choose age-appropriate content. Discuss the importance of balance between online and offline activities.
Praneeta Mahajan is an Indian Newslink reporter based in Hamilton.
