The New York Times had an article that discussed how Americans are suffering from outdoor deprivation disorder which affects their physical and mental health in a negative way. Kids ages 8 to 18 spend more time than ever entertaining themselves using indoor electronic media. They are spending less and less time outdoors because now even schools are eliminating recess so they have more time for academics. Studies are showing that this lack of physical activity outdoors is linked to the rising statistics of children having obesity related diseases, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, asthma, stress, ADD, and depression. Doctors say that the the remedy for preventing and treating these diseases is to get outside and start moving around in the green nature which is even free!
In the books "Anxiety Cure," and "Telling Yourself the Truth," the authors discuss how physical activity will relieve stress and anxiety much in the same way this article from the New York Times describes.
This is a good article! It is difficult to believe that some schools are doing away with recess. How are children supposed to concentrate as well without a sufficient-and much needed-break outdoors during the day? This makes me think about the newest Wii games-all of the latest technology games.
ReplyDeleteThis is a sad truth. I see many parents buying more and more toys and video games for their kid. The only question is when is the time for outdoor physical activity? I also can't believe that some schools are canceling or thinking about canceling recess.
ReplyDeleteGood article and post. Outdoor deprivation disorder? Are you kidding me??!! I am sure some pharmaceutical company is already planning to mass produce some new pill to fight ODD. Odd indeed.
ReplyDeleteBut seriously, the cure for ODD is to go outside and move around? What a novel concept. Get off of the couch, move away from the TV, and go outside. Still, I am sure that many would rather give their kid a pill for this disorder than kick them out of the house for a few hours.
What about causing problems regarding their social skills? How are children supposed to learn the proper social skills to succeed in the world when they are starring at a TV screen all day. This article demonstrates what technology is doing to our world and our children. Something needs to change!
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