The latest UniSC research on the impacts of screen time and social media on young people will be discussed at a Moreton Bay public panel event on Wednesday 28 October.

It is the first time the University of the Sunshine Coast’s expert panel series Building Better will be held at its campus at Petrie.

Award-winning ABC producer, broadcaster and health commentator Dr Norman Swan will lead the discussion on how the fast-moving digital world is reshaping young people’s thoughts, experiences and behaviour.

UniSC psychology expert Dr Rachael Sharman will present research on the effects of excessive screen time on the social and emotional development of tweens and teens.

“I’ll share practical advice for parents on setting boundaries and supporting wellbeing so they can help children develop healthy digital habits,” Dr Sharman said.

UniSC Professor of Mental Health and Neurobiology Dan Hermens will explain findings from research that uses MRI scans to track changes in the brains of children from age 12 to 17.

“This is now helping to predict future mental distress and better understand the causes of anxiety and impacts of cyberbullying,” Professor Hermens said.

Panellists will also include a young digital content producer and a nutritionist mother of five.

The event will be held from 6pm to 7pm on 28 October in the UniSC auditorium at 1 Moreton Parade, Petrie.

Members of the public can access ticketing and registration information for the Changing Minds: Tweens, Teens and Screens event on the Building Better Series event page.