Concerns About Parents’ Phone Use

A woman recently spent three months with her parents while her husband was deployed, and she noticed that they were spending more time on their phones than before. Both of her parents are retired and in their mid-60s. The woman is glad they’re keeping up with technology, but she’s concerned that their phone use could negatively impact their social health, behavior, and mental performance.

A Change in Behavior

Growing up, the woman’s family never had a television or computer in their primary living space, and screen time was limited. They would eat dinner together every night, and socializing and entertaining was an expectation. However, during her recent stay, her parents would bring their phones to the dining room table and grab them in the middle of dinner to answer messages or search for things on the internet.

Approaching the Conversation

The woman wants to talk to her parents about her concerns and encourage them to consider limiting their phone use. However, she’s been advised that approaching the conversation as if she needs to "raise" her parents would not be effective and could cause resentment. Instead, she should consider having an open and honest conversation with them about her concerns.

Rekindling a Friendship

In a separate situation, a man is trying to rekindle a friendship with a former college roommate. The two became close friends, but the man eventually realized that his friend was arrogant and competitive. They had an argument at the age of 30 and haven’t been close since. Although they still interact through a fantasy football league, the man doesn’t want to rekindle their friendship.

Setting Boundaries

The man has been trying to let his former friend down easy, but the friend continues to ask to spend time together. The man wants to avoid hurting his friend’s feelings but also needs to set clear boundaries. He’s been advised to continue being polite but distant, and to keep telling his friend that he’s busy if he asks to hang out. Eventually, the friend should get the hint and stop asking.