Guiding young people in virtual worlds: Setting boundaries and guiding with clarity, not violence

Children and adolescents are growing up in a world where digital media are always present and often beyond the reach of the adults responsible for them.

Many parents, educators, therapists, and social care professionals experience the same challenges: constant conflict about screen time, withdrawal into online worlds, loss of influence, and growing uncertainty about how to respond effectively.

This book offers a practical and relationship-focused alternative.

Drawing on the principles of Nonviolent Resistance (NVR) and Vigilant Care, Martin A. Fellacher demonstrates how adults can regain influence without coercion, power struggles, surveillance, or endless arguments.

Rather than treating smartphones, gaming, or social media as the core problem, the book places digital behaviour within its broader relational and developmental context. Through practical examples, case studies, and concrete strategies, readers learn how to:

- stay meaningfully present in the digital lives of children and adolescents

- respond constructively to excessive screen use, gaming, social media conflicts, and online risks

- set clear and sustainable limits without damaging the relationship

- strengthen parental and professional authority through presence, persistence, and connection

- build supportive networks around young people facing digital challenges

Written for parents, teachers, social workers, therapists, counsellors, and other professionals working with children and adolescents, this book provides practical guidance grounded in years of field experience.

A clear, hands-on guide for anyone who wants to remain a relevant, supportive, and influential adult in the lives of young people in a digital age.