Reader Reactions

I've spent my career witnessing the extraordinary power of human connection to shape a child's brain and lifelong trajectory. Digitally Dysregulated offers an urgent and deeply practical look at what happens when technology begins to crowd out those connections, and, importantly, reminds parents that they're not powerless to change course. An essential book for any parent who wants to protect their child's attention, strengthen their connection, and ensure there's still plenty of room for what makes us human, even in a tech-filled world.

—Dr. Dana Suskind, author of Human Raised: Nurturing Connection, Curiosity, and Lifelong Learning in the Age of AI

As a therapist who works with children and families, I see firsthand how deeply the digital world is impacting our kids. Digitally Dysregulated goes far beyond simply telling parents to limit screen time—it helps us understand what screens are doing to our children's developing brains, emotional regulation, and, perhaps most importantly, their connection with us. It's compassionate, eye-opening, and incredibly practical, and I truly believe this is an important read for every parent raising a child in the digital age.

—Tessa Stuckey, M.A., Licensed Professional Counselor and author of For the Sake of Our Youth: A Therapist's Perspective on Raising Families in Today's Culture

Our children don't need more technology to prepare them for the future. They need more of what makes them human… connection, creativity, movement, play, and the steady presence of the people who love them. Digitally Dysregulated gives parents the science to understand what screens are doing and the practical tools to do something about it. Dr. Carrie Mackensen doesn't just show us what to turn off… she helps families find their way back to each other.

—Dr. Stacy Jagger, LMFT, RPT-S, DMin ("Dr. Sassy"), author of 30-Day Blackout and founder of Music City Family Therapy

Dr. Mackensen doesn't just explain the damage—she rebuilds the parent's confidence to set a boundary and hold it, which is the actual missing piece in this conversation.

Dr. Carrie has a rare ability to take complex research and turn it into advice that feels practical, relatable, and possible for real families.

Every parent raising a child in the digital age needs to read this book.