Fear That LINE Application Teen Users Will React Less Active In The Society

Posted August 27, 2013 · August 27, 2013

Fear and concern for teens using LINE application that could lead to behavioral changes. It has been reported that 51% of teens immediately wake up to use this application.

Mr. Sorawong Thiantong Deputy Minister of Public Health said that he is worried about Thailand’s young population’s behavior in using mobile phone, especially applications like LINE which is popular for chatting.

According to a recent survey of the National Statistical Office in 2012 it was found that, people at the age of 6 years have started using mobile phones which comprises over 44 million users that accounts for 70 percent of the total population and is most likely to gradually increase in Bangkok. The survey indicated that

Bangkok had the most users 84%

Central 75%

North 68%

South 67%

Northeast 64%

Mr. Sorawong claims that there are both advantages and disadvantages in using the LINE application. The advantages are that it provides convenience in communication, it can send both voice and image files and it also saves money from refilling phone credit. The disadvantages are that most kids are not mature enough and receive no coaching or training which could affect both mental and physical health as well social behavior making face-to-face communication much lesser. People will be more self-involved and isolated, making them less concern and more reckless about the surroundings atmosphere which could lead to road accidents.

Dr. Vajira Pengchsn, director of the Department of mental health claims that most kids use the application LINE and use it every day or most of the time making it impossible for them to have time to do other activities. Other activity such as playing with friends, is very important for a child’s proper growth.

And the kids that play every day and are addicted will start to develop a rigid behavior. The latest survey results indicate 51% of teens wake up to play while the other 35% plays immediately before going to bed.

Dr. Vajira claims that parents should set rules and regulations for the usage of mobile phones. They should not allow the kids to use mobile phones when it is inappropriate such as in classroom or during bed time. However if the kids do not follow then the parents should punish them such as not allowing them to refill phone credit, or no internet usage etc.

Moreover, the Institute of Mental Health Child and Adolescent Counseling Rajanagarindra is now open for counseling, parents and children that are mobile phones or game addicts that needs help. If you need a helping hand you can call 02-248-8990 or call the hotline number 1323 which is open 24 hours.