Qatar University (QU), through the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) in collaboration with the Behavioural Healthcare Centre (BHC), hosted a conference titled 'Family and the Consolidation of Moral Values in Light of Technological Challenges.'
The event brought together academics and experts in technology, sociology, and behavioural sciences to discuss the growing impact of technology on family relationships and explore strategies for promoting ethical values amidst digital advancements.
CAS dean Dr Fatima al-Kubaisi and BHC director Rashid Mohammed al-Nuaimi spoke on the occasion. They addressed the importance of strengthening family cohesion in light of the technological pressures faced by contemporary societies, emphasising the vital role that educational and research institutions play in steering discussions toward sustainable solutions.
Dr al-Kubaisi noted that while technology provides valuable services for societal development, it has also brought forth new values and standards that frequently conflict with cultural norms, significantly affecting family bonds and relationships. She concluded by encouraging researchers in the social and human sciences to concentrate on examining the effects of technological media on our moral values, with the goal of identifying these impacts and finding ways to positively influence them while addressing any threats to these values.
Al-Nuaimi emphasised that the forum seeks solutions to protect moral values in society amid the challenges posed by technology and modern communication. He noted that traditional education is no longer the only source of knowledge for adolescents, with new values emerging from digital information that may not align with established standards.
The forum featured several sessions that addressed the impact of technology on family relationships and strategies to mitigate negative effects. One session focused on the negative impact of digital pressures on family connections, emphasising technology's influence on family cohesion and values of care and participation.
Another session explored the challenges that modern technology poses for contemporary families, discussing how to align family values with rapid changes and develop behavioral guidelines to strengthen family ties.
A panel discussion during the conference.
