Screen media use (accessing digital content on tablets, cell phones, etc.) is quickly replacing traditional family time, and there is an accepted reality that nothing can be done. With few resources available, many parents are challenged to make the best decisions for their families. Breaking the Trance does not blame parents, nor vilifies technology as a whole, but rather provides easy and effective strategies to implement immediately. Ultimately, parents will be able to establish a screen control plan based on their own family's values that works and can be enforced.

Introduction: why taking charge is easier said than done -- How to determine whether your child is screen dependent -- Brains awash in adrenaline: what overclocking the brain does to the bodies, minds, and nervous systems of screen-dependent children -- There is no pill to cure it: how to know whether the problem is caused by screen dependence or a co-occurring psychiatric condition -- The deepest wound: interrupted identity development -- The gangster, the golem, and the charmer: how becoming screen dependent changes a child's personality -- Rules for schools: what you can do to make sure your child's school is part of the solution -- Give me what I want and nobody gets guilt: how the screen-dependent child trains his parents -- Boys against moms: the hidden anguish of mothers and wives -- Surrender is easier when you have good reasons: what parents tell themselves to stifle the inner voice of concern -- Implementing screen controls -- phase 1: writing your family values statement and behavior standards -- Implementing screen controls -- phase 2: executing and enforcing your screen control plan -- How to help a formerly screen-dependent child battle his demons -- Conclusion: you are in charge.