The final report of the 2nd New Media and Family Workshop, organized by Üsküdar University, Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University, AI Labs, and Üsküdar University’s Human Centered Communication Research and Application Center (İLİMER), has been published.
The multidimensional effects of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and new media technologies on the family structure were examined in light of scientific data. Organized within the framework of 2025 being declared the “Year of the Family,” the workshop’s final report has been shared with the public electronically and as open access.
The report indicates that digitalization is an irreversible process, while also demonstrating that protecting the institution of the family is possible through conscious media use, a strong legal infrastructure, and value-based communication practices.
The 2nd New Media and Family Workshop, organized in collaboration between Üsküdar University and Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University (ÇOMÜ), was held on December 3, 2025, at Üsküdar University’s Nermin Tarhan Conference Hall. The workshop was designed to address the transformation of the family institution in the digital age within the scope of 2025 being declared the Year of the Family.
The event was realized through the cooperation of Üsküdar University, ÇOMÜ, AI Labs, and Üsküdar University’s Human Centered Communication Research and Application Center (İLİMER). Approximately 85 academics and industry representatives participated. The effects of new media on the family were evaluated from sociological, psychological, legal, and technological perspectives.
Joint editorial leadership by rectors
The final report was co-directed by Üsküdar University Rector Prof. Nazife Güngör and Çanakkale Onsekiz Mart University Rector Prof. R. Cüneyt Erenoğlu. The editors were Prof. Deniz Yengin, Prof. Gül Esra Atalay, and Prof. B. Aykut Arıkan.
Published electronically and as open access by AI Labs Publications, the report presents scientific findings and expert opinions on the broad impact of digitalization, ranging from intra family communication and privacy to parenting practices and legal regulations.
The digital transformation of family structure under review
Within the workshop, comprehensive discussions were conducted at six different roundtables focusing on spousal communication, parent child relationships, family values, artificial intelligence, addiction, and law. The report analyzes risk areas such as digital addiction, cyberbullying, and privacy violations, while also presenting findings on how social media use transforms family communication.
The report emphasizes that new media tools transform the family not only technically but also culturally and psychologically. It highlights that social media use reduces face to face communication within families and that spending time in digital environments despite being physically together strengthens the phenomenon of being “together yet alone.”
Key Risk Areas
The 169 page report identifies the following major risk areas:
“Digital loneliness” and communication breakdown
The widespread use of new media tools has weakened shared family time habits, and screen based communication has begun to replace face to face interaction.
Artificial intelligence and disinformation
With the increase in AI supported content production, the risk of disinformation has grown. Deepfake technologies pose threats such as fraud and reputational damage.
Sharenting and digital footprint
Parents sharing images and personal information about their children on social media may lead to future privacy violations and permanent digital footprint problems for children.
Digital gambling and addiction
It is noted that the age of engagement in illegal betting and gambling through digital platforms has dropped to as low as 13, posing serious risks to family finances and family unity.
Concrete solutions and strategic action plan
The report not only identifies problems but also presents solution proposals and a strategic action plan. Key recommendations include:
1. Strengthening legal regulations
- Effective implementation of Law No. 6284
- Defining digital violence as a distinct criminal offense
- Introducing aggravating circumstances for crimes committed using artificial intelligence
2. Digital and artificial intelligence literacy
Expanding Artificial Intelligence Literacy and Digital Privacy training not only for children but also for parents
3. Strengthening media ethics
Encouraging a non-sensational, victim centered, and ethical language in family and child related news through RTÜK and press professional organizations
4. Digital detox and shared time
Increasing screen free social and physical activities within families and limiting digital device use during specific time periods to strengthen family bonds.
Prof. Nevzat Tarhan: “Remove phones completely during meals”
Speaking at the opening of the workshop, President of Üsküdar University Prof. Nevzat Tarhan emphasized that digitalization is inevitable but must be used consciously.
Prof. Tarhan highlighted the harmful effects of digitalization on family relationships and shared solution proposals. He suggested completely removing phones during meals and noted that some families have even adopted a “phone collection plate” practice. He emphasized the necessity of mandatory screen time rules according to age and stated that the state is accelerating regulatory efforts in this area. He also underlined the importance of designating specific times each week within the family as “digital detox” periods.
Prof. Tarhan stated, “With practices such as Family Day, Mother’s Day, or Father’s Day, children can be separated from digital devices, even if briefly. In this way, the toxic effects of digitalization can be reduced while continuing to benefit from its positive aspects.”
Is it possible to protect the family in the modern age?
The final report points out that digitalization is an irreversible process, yet the protection of the family institution is possible through conscious media use, a strong legal framework, and value-based communication practices.
Prepared in light of scientific data and expert opinions, the work serves as a guiding resource for policymakers, academics, and families alike.
The full report is available electronically and as open access through AI Labs Publications.