Smartphone overuse in adolescents has risen sharply over the last three years sparking a distancing effect through a behavior known as “phubbing”. Yes, you heard that correctly—“phubbing.” This is a combination of snubbing another person by opting to look at a smartphone rather than interact. So even if your girl doesn’t have social media, if her friend does, the alienation effect fuels loneliness and disconnection. 

As a Christ-follower, your girl’s calling as a friend is one that begs relationship, eye contact, and shared experiences. If she’s feeling alienated by others, help her to identify and thank God for a trusted friend who IS available—even if it’s just one friend. If she’s opting for the phone over the friend, it may be time for a phone-ectomy when possible. 

Proverbs 17:17, NIV 

Listen to the Raising Godly Girls Minute with Patti Garibay: