Beyond the Screen
Book Description
In a world where teenagers live perpetually connected to their devices, many adults struggle to understand the deeper motivations driving this digital immersion. Andrew Zirschky offers a fresh perspective that moves beyond surface-level concerns about screen time to explore the profound spiritual and relational needs that draw young people to social media.
Rather than dismissing technology as a distraction, Zirschky reveals how teenagers often turn to digital platforms in their search for authentic connection and intimacy. Through careful ethnographic research and direct conversations with teens, he uncovers a generation yearning for meaningful relationships that they find lacking in traditional face-to-face interactions, including within religious communities.
This thoughtful exploration combines contemporary research on youth and digital media with theological insights to paint a nuanced picture of teenage life online. Zirschky demonstrates how understanding these deeper motivations can transform how adults, particularly those in ministry, approach and connect with younger generations.
Beyond the Screen challenges readers to reconsider their assumptions about technology and youth culture. Instead of viewing digital engagement as inherently problematic, the book reveals opportunities for fostering genuine spiritual connection and community. For anyone seeking to bridge generational divides and minister effectively to millennials, this work provides both understanding and practical direction for meaningful engagement in our digital age.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~4 hours)
📄 Length: 160 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Adult
- ✓ Explore Internet
- ✓ Explore Christianity and culture
- ✓ Explore Youth
- ✓ Explore Information technology
- ✓ Explore Technologie de l'information
- ✓ Explore Jeunesse
- ✓ Explore Aspect religieux
