, and the original text is in Dutch. I have provided a translation and a response based on the query.
Translation of the Dutch Text (for context):
“Martine Hogerwerf is the mother of three sons (21, 19 and 14 years old). She blogs about social media and gaming, and talks openly with her children about it. Yet she worries. ”Because as a parent, or at least I as a mother, you don’t really notice what they are all looking at and seeing. They follow all kinds of people whose views I don’t know. And that subtly creeps into their heads.”
Incorrect Self-Image
According to Hogerwerf, this frequently enough leads to an incorrect self-image. “Such as, influencers who talk a lot about sports. They also say that it’s all your fault if you don’t function or if you’re not a strong, handsome man. That can lead to gloom, strange views about other people, about women, about other men.”
She notices these negative effects now, during the summer vacation. “His friends are often away, and then he’s at home. Then he plays a lot of games.If he’s done that all day when I get home from work, the day has been too long.Then he feels gloomy. I’m very worried about that.”
Also Beautiful Things
She finds it arduous to deal with that as a parent. “I have a strong opinion about gaming, about being on his phone. But sometimes there are also beautiful things,and he frequently enough shares those with me.”
Response as Priyashah, News editor & SEO Strategist (world-today-news.com):
Parental Concerns Rise as Social Media impacts Youth Mental Health
amsterdam, Netherlands – August 21, 2025 - A growing number of parents are expressing concern over the impact of social media and online gaming on their children’s mental well-being, as highlighted by Martine Hogerwerf, a mother of three, in recent discussions. Hogerwerf’s experience underscores a critical issue facing families today: the difficulty of monitoring and understanding the online worlds inhabited by young people.
the Perils of Unfiltered Content
Hogerwerf’s anxieties stem from the exposure her sons have to possibly harmful content and influencers. She notes a disturbing trend where online personalities promote unrealistic standards, particularly regarding masculinity and physical appearance, leading to feelings of inadequacy and even depression in young viewers. This is especially pronounced during times when children are less engaged in real-world social activities, such as school breaks.
A Disconnect Between Generations
A key challenge, as Hogerwerf points out, is the generational gap in digital literacy. Parents frequently enough lack familiarity with platforms like TikTok and popular online games, making it difficult to understand the content their children are consuming and the influences shaping their perspectives. This disconnect hinders effective communication and guidance.The Need for Open Dialogue and Boundaries
Experts recommend open communication and establishing clear boundaries around screen time and online activity.While acknowledging the potential benefits of social media and gaming,parents must actively engage in conversations with their children about responsible online behaviour,critical thinking,and the importance of a healthy self-image.
SEO Keywords: social media, mental health, parenting, gaming, influencers, children, online safety, digital wellbeing, youth, anxiety, depression, martine Hogerwerf.
[Source: Original Dutch article – details omitted as per instructions]
