University Students Launch Project to Combat Screen Addiction
Yeditepe University students have launched the Sustainable Technological Adaptation Project (SETAP) to raise awareness about the growing problem of screen addiction among children. In the first phase, workshops were held for children; in the second, seminars were organized for parents. Speaking about the project, techno-sociologist Prof. Dr. Altan Kar said, “We aim to achieve screen balance — finding harmony between online and offline life. Our goal is not to impose restrictions but to guide behavior. We want to prevent childhood from being consumed by screens by encouraging physical activities, family-based events, and games played in parks.” The parent-focused part of the SETAP Project, conducted in collaboration with Yeditepe University and Ataşehir Municipality’s Social Support Services Directorate, began with a seminar titled ‘Regaining Focus’ at Mustafa Saffet Cultural Center. The seminars will continue throughout November and December at four different locations..
‘Excessive Screen Time Harms Children’
Prof. Dr. Kar, Head of the Department of E-Commerce and Management and project coordinator, explained that SETAP began as a social responsibility initiative within the senior graduation projects of E-Commerce students. “Children’s screen time has become a major issue today. Especially during the pandemic, online education, entertainment, and social interaction all became screen-based, leading to negative effects. Our project promotes a balance between online and offline life. Rather than banning screens, we focus on guidance—encouraging physical activities, family events, and outdoor play rather than screen time. We aim to raise awareness and motivate parents.”
‘Less Screen Time, More Family Time’
Prof. Dr. Kar noted that the project began with experimental workshops for children. “Over a 10-week ‘Online and Offline Screen Balance’ program, we encouraged families to plan weekly alternative activities. The children initially had long screen hours; we asked them to replace that time with a physical activity goal. Over time, they began spending more time with their families and participating in diverse activities.”
She added that the project also observed family interactions: “We saw children engaging in activities like board games and traditional games with their parents. Some adopted pets. Others started cooking with their mothers, playing sports with their fathers, or returning to hobbies they had abandoned. The most positive outcome was seeing these habits become sustainable. Families creating ‘screen-free time’ and engaging in joint activities significantly reduced children’s screen exposure.”.
‘The Problem Is Not the Screen, but Lack of Awareness’
Highlighting that parental awareness is key, Prof. Dr. Kar stated, “The issue is not the screen itself but the lack of awareness. If parents know and monitor what their children are doing online, the focus shifts from screen time to content.”
‘Screen Addiction Is a Global Problem’
Touching on the global context, Prof. Dr. Kar said, “There has been a sharp rise in attention disorders and screen addiction worldwide in the past decade. Countries like the U.S. and China established treatment centers years ago, while awareness in Türkiye has only recently begun to increase.”
‘Games Develops Conscience and Teaches Social Values’
Discussing the findings, Prof. Dr. Kar said, “Our study showed that what children do after leaving the screen is critical. Play helps children develop empathy and learn social values. ‘Quality time’ is often mentioned, but our findings emphasize that it means playing with children—whether through board games, traditional games, or any form of interactive play. Playing strengthens communication and transmits values between parent and child. Spending time through play is the most effective way for parents to connect and educate.”
One participant, Çiğdem Billur Yıldız, said: “I have daughters, and I joined the seminar to learn what I can offer them. I’m glad I came — it reminded me how valuable it is to spend time and play with my children.”.