Have you ever wondered if technology is actually bad for you? Well, I was sitting here doing homework when I noticed myself getting distracted every few minutes by my phone. I decided to take a deeper look into if technology is actually making this generation worse . While researching this, I have found many different answers going both the positive and negative direction.
“While some forms of technology may have made positive changes in the world, there is evidence for the negative effects of technology and its overuse, as well.The overuse of technology may have a more significant impact on developing children and teenagers. Overuse or dependence on technology may have adverse psychological effects, including: Isolation, Depression and anxiety. Technology use may increase the risk of physical issues as well, including: eyestrain, poor posture, sleep problems, reduced physical activity.The research also noted the importance of teaching children to interact with these technologies in healthful ways by monitoring their time using them and providing interesting alternatives.Additionally, a study of teenagers aged 15–16 Trusted Source found that those who had high digital media use had an increased chance of developing symptoms of attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).This does not mean that digital media use causes ADHD, rather that there is an association between the two. More research needs to be done to determine what this association means.The authors of 2015 researchTrusted Source found that technology appears to negatively affect the overall health of children and teenagers of all ages. Researchers noted the importance of parents and caregivers controlling screen time in all children.The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children under 18 months old avoid screen time altogether, while 2–5-year-olds have no more than 1 hour a day of high-quality viewing with an adult.
”(https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/negative-effects-of-technology#in-children)
So what I got from this article is that technology overall has a negative effect on anyone, studies have proven it! On the other hand, I have also found an article that talks about how technology can be good. “Let’s start with the benefits that technology offers us. There is no question that we’re more connected than ever before, which means that most of our family, friends, coworkers, and loved ones are just a text, call, email, or video chat away. Stop and appreciate this for a moment! As difficult as being apart, for any reason, can be, we can still talk in real time with those who matter most.
That also means we don’t have to relinquish many of our routines, no matter what else is going on in the world. Technology allows us to keep working, communicating, going to school, shopping, going to doctor or therapy appointments, playing games, and staying aware of current events.
And it allows us to do so with even more ease: Google’s product suite, for instance, can help you write, format, present, calculate, collaborate, remind, and share all from one platform alone. The resources available today have made it possible to easily learn, share, and create in a truly global environment.
Technology allows students to watch lectures, participate in discussion groups, complete assignments, and earn their degrees from the comfort of their own homes. Online learning platforms make it possible to skip the commute to campus, eliminate the need for exams by mail, and improve efficiency.”(https://www.uagrantham.edu/blog/technology-the-good-the-bad-the-ugly/). I could see this making sense. I also think that ever since the covid period in our lives, we have all learned how to use technology on an everyday basis. This article also talks about the “balance”. “As they say, everything in moderation. There are some truly wonderful tools out there, and you don’t have to delete your accounts or throw your computer out the window in order to have a positive relationship with technology. All you really need is to set some healthy boundaries!
Try charging your phone outside the bedroom so it’s not the first thing you look at in the morning. Practice turning off your devices during mealtimes or while exercising. Set time limits for your computer, tablet, or TV. Turn off notifications on your mobile tech so you’re less likely to pick it up as often. Create clear boundaries for when you plan to study and when it’s time to take a break. Consider whether there are some analog tools that help you learn better than their online counterparts, such as taking handwritten notes rather than typing them. Experiment and see what works—and feels—best for you.
Most importantly, check in with yourself regularly to see how you’re feeling. Take a moment to ask yourself: Am I really benefiting from using this piece of technology? Am I using this tool mindfully and how it was intended, or has it taken on a life of its own? Am I getting more out of it than I’m spending—in time, money, or energy? If you’re getting your online degree at UA Grantham, take advantage of your dedicated student advisor’s one-on-one support. They will help you time manage your technology and focus to meet your personal goals.”