The Psychological Counseling and Educational Guidance Unit at Al-Kindy College of Medicine, University of Baghdad, organized an awareness seminar titled “Child Psychology: Personality Development and the Risks of Games and Digital Environments.” The seminar was delivered by guests from the University of Baghdad: Asst. Lecturer Saad Hassan Hamoud (Head of the Guidance Division at the Educational and Psychological Research Center), Asst. Instructor Nasr Thabit (Head of the Mental Health Unit at the same center), and Asst. Instructor Hadeel Fadhil (Head of the Information Technology Unit).
The seminar was attended by the Dean of the College, Prof. Dr. Mohammed Shihab Al-Eidani, the Scientific and Administrative Assistants, the Head of the College Guidance Unit Prof. Dr. Suzan Amanah Rattan, along with a number of faculty members, staff, and students.
Key messages from the seminar
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How digital environments shape a child’s personality: Speakers explained that technology and digital interaction can influence children’s emotional and social development, behaviors, and daily routines.
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Balanced use vs. overuse: The seminar noted that structured, time-limited use may support thinking and cognitive skills, while excessive use can contribute to social withdrawal, attention difficulties, and weaker self-regulation.
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Online safety and digital privacy: The session warned about inappropriate content and the risks of collecting digital data without awareness, emphasizing the importance of building digital awareness for both children and families.
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The family’s role: Participants stressed practical steps for parents, including screen-time scheduling, choosing age-appropriate games, and encouraging real-life activities that strengthen children’s psychological and social growth.
Child safety note: the danger of fireworks
The seminar also addressed the risks of fireworks for children, highlighting that they are among the leading causes of eye injuries. Potential harm may include eyelid burns, corneal tears, dangerous foreign-body fragments, and severe infections, which can lead to vision loss. The speakers emphasized complete prevention, close supervision during holidays and celebrations, and seeking urgent medical care if any injury occurs.
