On the Radar: Meta Loses, ‘Auramaxxing’ and Sugary Drinks
Meta and YouTube lost a landmark social media case. What is the “auramaxxing” trend? How are sugary drinks increasing anxiety?
Reflecting on ‘The AI Doc,’ or How I Didn’t Change My Mind About Apocaloptimism
Daniel Roher’s ‘The AI Doc’ reminds us that we aren’t in control. But really, neither is artificial intelligence.
On the Radar: Sleeping In, ‘Slot Machine Apps’ and Phone-Shaming
Sleeping in on weekends can protect mental health. “Slot machine apps” drive us to our phones in addictive ways. Kids are phone-shaming their parents over screentime habits.
On the Radar: ‘Boy Kibble’ vs. ‘Girl Dinner,’ Elio’s Original Plot and Social Media’s Jury Deliberations
What are the “boy kibble” and “girl dinner” trends on social media? Why did Pixar ax the original plot of ‘Elio?’ A jury deliberates whether social media giants should be held accountable for harms to teens.
Plugged In Movie Awards: 2026 Winners
You voted. We debated. And now they’re here: the winners of the 2026 Plugged In Movie Awards!
On the Radar: Talking About War, Teen Boy Eating Disorders and ChatGPT’s ‘Adult Mode’
How to talk to your teens about war. Eating disorders in teen boys on the rise. ChatGPT’s “adult mode” is delayed, but parents should prep now.
On the Radar: AI Emotional Support, Anti-Aging Peptides and Instagram’s New Parental Alert Feature
Teens are turning to AI for emotional support. Why are anti-aging peptides trending on social media? Instagram plans to alert parents for suicidal risks in teens.
When Parental Controls Fail: Teaching Your Kids Digital Literacy
Parental controls can help curb screen time when kids are little, but new research says digital literacy is far more successful over their lifetimes.
Plugged In Movie Awards: Best Christian Movies (2026)
Sometimes, you just want to watch a movie that lines up perfectly with your family’s beliefs. Our nominees for Best Christian Movies do just that.
Plugged In Movie Awards: Best Movies for Adults (2026)
The Oscars are filled with R-rated fare. Plugged In’s Best Movies for Adults offer some more wholesome options for grown-ups.