#371: Remembering EFT Therapy Founder Dr. Sue Johnson

Tech Impact

The pervasive use of technology, particularly screens, is reshaping family and relational interactions. Sue Johnson shares a poignant observation of a family at a restaurant, where despite being physically together, they were engrossed in their screens, missing out on genuine connection 1. She emphasizes the importance of being emotionally available and responsive, highlighting the risk of technology creating emotional distance.

It's an interesting one because, of course, I can now talk to my son, who lives quite close, but he's in another city, and I can zoom him, and that's wonderful. I think it depends on how you use it.

--- Sue Johnson

Johnson warns that while technology can facilitate communication, it can also lead to a lack of emotional engagement, especially among adolescents seeking acceptance 1.

   

Relational Dynamics

Technology's role in shaping modern relational dynamics is profound, affecting emotional availability and connection. Sue Johnson describes a scene in Naples where children, absorbed in their devices, remained silent while adults engaged in lively conversation 1. This illustrates how screens can create a divide, even within close-knit groups.

The adult part of the family was loud and boisterous and having arguments and jokes and smacking each other on the back and right. And the other end of the table, which had about eight kids on it, was totally silent because they were all on devices. This is bad news.

--- Sue Johnson

She stresses the need for intentional technology use to foster genuine emotional connections and prevent relational disconnection 1.