TECH ADDICTION

Tech addiction is a type of behavioral or process addiction. These addictions do not involve substance use but are characterized by a progressive inability to control, regulate, or limit the problematic behavior. Technology addiction refers to excessive and compulsive indulging in video gaming, social media and networking, Youtube and web surfing, use of phones and other tech devices.

Never has the world been more “connected” or technology use so pervasive. Teens and young adults are particularly prone to their tech time becoming all-consuming and impacting school, family and social life, and work, although people of all ages can become hooked.

Paradoxically, being constantly “plugged-in” leads to a disconnect from society, isolation, and a preference for time in the virtual, online world, thereby transferring one’s social life to digital relationships and connections. Tech addiction can lead to antisocial behavior, estrangement from friends, classmates, colleagues and family, loss of the capacity to function normally in society, and an inability to curtail one’s use of devices and the internet.

In 2019, the WHO recognized online gaming as a diagnosable addiction, and mental health professionals all over the world are expressing concern over a dramatic increase in screen time in the younger generations.

Typical effects of technology addiction include impaired ability to focus, short attention spans, low boredom tolerance, disrupted sleep patterns, and more. Symptoms of technology addiction are a decreased interest in offline activities in favor of the pursuit of online activities and experiences, irritability or frustration when forced to disconnect, and persistent internet use regardless of negative consequences on education, work, and relationships.