The Parent Coaching Institute (PCI) has released the results of a multi-national survey on screen time, smartphone use, and social media, highlighting that the quality of the parent-teen relationship is the most influential factor in shaping teens' technology habits. The survey, conducted by PCI founder Gloria DeGaetano and PCI Certified Parent Coach Christina Gika, included random respondents from the United States, Greece, India, Mexico, the Netherlands, and Middle Eastern countries such as Egypt, Bahrain, and Jordan. Most parents and teens (ages 11-18) were not related, providing a broad perspective on family dynamics around technology.
The survey consisted of 24 questions, primarily multiple choice with some open-ended responses. Its goal was to assess whether parents and teens share similar views on screen use and to identify gaps that could be addressed. DeGaetano noted that the results mirrored findings from over four decades of research: 'While tech boundaries are absolutely necessary, how they are developed, enforced and sustained by the parents, along with how the teens perceive parental intent, become crucial factors in determining teens' relationship with technology.'
Key findings indicate that communication style, parental modeling, perceptions of trust, and collaborative boundary-setting significantly influence how teens experience and use technology. Gika emphasized, 'What I value most about the findings is that they move the conversation beyond screen time and toward relationship. Our results highlight the importance of trust, communication, and connection in supporting healthy digital habits.' The survey suggests that when parents prioritize connection over control, technology becomes a tool for growth rather than a source of friction.
DeGaetano added, 'When families prioritize connection over control, technology stops being a source of friction and starts being a tool for growth. In the end, the parent-teen bond remains the only truly un-hackable digital safety feature.' The full results are available in a white paper that can be accessed here for parents and professionals working with families, such as counselors and parent educators.
The Parent Coaching Institute, recently featured in an article about parent coaching, offers a year-long online Parent Coach Certification program in affiliation with Southern New Hampshire University. Applications are now being accepted for the 2026 Fall Term, with a deadline of September 1. For more information, visit www.ThePCI.org.
