By Marco Mourão
Source: Nappy
Benefits of the internet
The arrival of the internet brought countless benefits to society. It revolutionised the way we access information, putting knowledge within everyone’s reach. Beyond that, instant global communication through social media brought geographical distances closer, shortening time and space. The internet also drove the digital economy, creating business and job opportunities all over the world.
Challenges of the internet
As the internet advanced, significant challenges emerged as well. The spread of false information and political polarisation became serious problems. Online privacy is another matter that deserves attention, since more and more internet users have their privacy compromised. A minimum of digital education is essential to avoid misuse of technology, as is knowing how to separate the online world from the offline one, avoiding health problems and excessive dependency on the internet, which can lead to social isolation and anxiety.
Social media and its challenges
In the early years of the twenty-first century, social media emerged as an extension of the internet, allowing people to connect and share their lives in unprecedented ways. Social media brought notable advantages, making communication easier and more accessible.
It allowed friends and family to stay in touch regardless of geographical distance. Social media also gave a voice to social movements and activism, driving positive change in society.
The misuse of social media, however, brought challenges of its own. The spread of fake news and political polarisation intensified. According to data from the Pew Research Center, 64% of adults exposed to information on the internet cannot tell whether it is true or not.
In Brazil, for example, under previous governments and during the pandemic, we witnessed enormous polarisation as well as an exponential growth of false information, causing serious harm to people, whose opinions on a range of subjects end up being affected. The relentless pursuit of online validation has led to problems of self-esteem and anxiety. Social media addiction has damaged the quality of interpersonal relationships, as face-to-face interactions have been replaced by likes and emojis.
Connected, yet isolated: the emergence of the new digital illnesses
Although we are more connected than ever, many of us also feel isolated. We spend hours scrolling through social media, yet we do not feel truly connected to the people around us. That sense of isolation and loneliness is one of the negative consequences of digital dependency.
There is no shortage of cases of people whose social life outside the internet is barely developed or practically non-existent, as well as cases of dysfunctional families where communication between members is scarce or lacking, in scenarios where children barely talk to their parents because they spend hours on video games or social media, and where the parents themselves may fail to develop effective communication and affection with their children, because they devote much of their time at home to watching television or using social media as well. Digital dependency can affect everyone, but one group in particular can be harmed the most: young people.
Unpacking digital addiction: what it is and how to recognise it
Before we explore the effects of digital addiction among young people, it is important to understand what it involves. Digital addiction is an uncontrolled compulsion towards the excessive use of electronic devices such as smartphones and computers. Symptoms include difficulty managing the time spent on these devices, neglect of obligations, social isolation and irritation when internet access is restricted. Identifying these signs early is crucial to avoiding more serious problems.
A connected generation: the price of dependency for young people
Young people are especially vulnerable to the negative effects of digital dependency, which has a profound impact on their mental health. They grew up in an era in which technology has always been present and they often know no life without it. Hours on social media, video games or browsing online can lead to anxiety, depression and low self-esteem. Constant exposure to an idealised virtual reality and comparison with apparently perfect lives can generate feelings of inadequacy. Digital addiction also hinders the development of social and emotional skills, deepening the sense of isolation.
Excess screen time and its physical effects
Beyond the mental consequences, digital addiction also has a negative impact on physical health. Excessive time in front of screens is linked to problems such as eyesight difficulties, headaches, sleep disorders and lack of physical activity. Young people who spend a lot of time on these devices are at greater risk of developing posture problems, obesity and illnesses related to inactivity. Outdoor activities and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle are essential; before having a well-developed online life, we should prioritise developing our offline life.
The role of technology companies in dependency
While young people face digital addiction, it is crucial to consider the role of technology companies in this dynamic. Many companies use design and marketing strategies to keep users on their platforms. Constant notifications, gamification and personalised algorithms are built to increase engagement. It is essential that companies take on the responsibility of creating a healthy digital environment, limiting excessive exposure and promoting conscious use of technology
Strategies for preventing and managing digital addiction
Preventing and dealing with addiction demands effective strategies. Educating people about the risks of excessive use of electronics and teaching them to set healthy limits are essential. Encouraging offline activities, promoting good sleep hygiene and establishing moments of digital disconnection are also important measures.
That is where the course Information Security for Parents comes in, developed by Casa Hacker in partnership with Tactical Tech. Digital education for teachers and pupils is a recurring activity, but what about the parents of children and adolescents? Where do they fit into this chain? This course offers strategies for developing security and privacy practices to protect your children in the virtual world.
Oh, and all proceeds go towards Casa Hacker’s activities 🙂 So, as well as gaining knowledge, you will be helping other people connect with the STEAM movement.
Are you ready? Sign up for the course, which has limited places.