Final answer:
Making good decisions about electronic media is difficult for families due to the fast pace of technological change, the complex nature of the devices, the influence of streams and social media, and the overwhelming abundance of choices leading to potential decision fatigue.
Step-by-step explanation:
Making good decisions about electronic media is challenging for families for several reasons. The rapid pace of technological evolution outstrips the slower human ability to adapt on a societal level. We struggle to understand the complexities of the devices we use daily, which impairs our ability to make informed decisions about using technology responsibly. Additionally, the multitude of choices available can cause decision fatigue, making it hard to determine the best options for our needs.
Streams, sponsors, and social media significantly influence our decisions. They affect how we manage our time, what entertainment we consume, and which products we purchase. This impact is so profound that very few significant decisions are made without consulting these information streams. Finally, the omnipresence of media can lead to a state of narcotizing dysfunction, where we become overwhelmed by media input to the point of passivity rather than action.
All of these factors contribute to the complex environment in which families must navigate their media choices. The media not only provides entertainment and product marketing but also plays a crucial role in societal socialization, passing along norms, values, and beliefs, and serving as cultural touchstones during significant events.