Digital Detox Strategies That Actually Work (Even With Stubborn Teens)

Tired of fighting over screen time with your teen?  Then this episode is for you. Dr. Cam sits down with digital wellness expert Nicole Rawson, founder of Screen Time Clinic, to tackle one of today’s biggest parenting challenges: teen screen addiction. 

Nicole shares why traditional limits don’t work anymore, how to spot warning signs early, and what a real digital detox looks like (hint: it’s not just unplugging the Wi-Fi). 

If you're ready to take back control, reconnect with your teen, and restore peace in your home, don’t miss this conversation.

WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE

• How excessive screen time rewires your teen’s brain and behavior
• Why some teens are more sensitive to screen addiction than others
• What actually works when a teen is addicted to their phone or gaming
• How to do a digital detox with your teen instead of against them

 

5 KEY TAKEAWAYS FOR PARENTS OF TEENS

1. Complete digital detox is more effective than moderation for addicted teens
2. Structure and planning are essential for a successful screen break
3. Withdrawal is a red flag—not just “normal teen stuff”
4. Parents must model healthy digital habits to help their teens reset
5. Replacing screen time with meaningful, engaging activities is key to long-term success

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RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE

• Reset Your Child’s Brain by Dr. Victoria Dunckley
• ScreenTimeClinic.com
• Free Digital Detox Newsletter & Guide

 

CONNECT WITH OUR GUEST: Nicole Rawson

• Website: ScreenTimeClinic.com
• Instagram: @screentimeclinic

 

CONNECT WITH YOUR HOST: Dr. Cam Caswell

• Website: AskDrCam.com
• Instagram: @DrCamCaswell
• TikTok: @the.teen.translator
• YouTube: Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam
• Facebook: @DrCamCaswell

 

EPISODE CHAPTERS

00:00 Understanding Screen Time Concerns 03:04 The Impact of Screen Time on Teens 05:53 Identifying Sensitivity to Digital Media 08:54 Implementing Digital Detox Strategies 12:00 Navigating Resistance from Teens 15:02 Recognizing Signs of Addiction 18:12 Healthy Coping Mechanisms for Teens 26:54 The Impact of Screen Time on Family Dynamics 31:10 Understanding Teen Addiction to Screens 36:49 Building Healthy Structures for Teens 41:54 The Role of Parents in Digital Detox

  ABOUT THE SHOW

The Parenting Teens with Dr. Cam Podcast is your go-to resource for navigating the challenges of raising teenagers. Hosted by Dr. Cam Caswel