Life beyond devices
We all are so glued to our devices that many of us would feel anxious every time we keep our phone away. Technology has invaded the lives of people to an extent that they cannot live without phones, laptops and tablets anymore. Although the cell phone was initially introduced as a mode of long distance communication it later developed into a sensation as the size and various features advanced. Today, mobile phone and other tech device manufacturers compete to introduce the tiniest and the ‘ smartest’ device for the ‘ convenience’ of customers. Whether it is smart or convenient are two questionable adjectives when looking at the level of addiction and negative behaviours revolving around the usage of these devices.
Today, people including children find it more interesting to be engaged in virtual chats than in actual, face- to- face conversations. When a couple goes on a date, they would rather share stories about what they saw on Facebook than actually talking about themselves. People are more interested in posting pictures about what they do, see, eat and drink rather than enjoying the moments. This in fact shows the powerful influence these devices have had on people, despite their age. These behaviours are common among teenagers who are also categorized as active social media users. They are concerned about the number of ‘ Likes’ or ‘ Views’ they receive so that they become popular. In fact one would wonder whether social media has produced more attention- seekers than users. There is a similar set of people who are also interested in commenting their thoughts about what they see.
Research has proven that social media addiction is similar to the addiction towards alcohol, smoking or drugs. Therefore it shows that stimulation in the brain encourages the pleasing sensation brought about by using these devices because they function according to the way you want. There’s enough information and connections at the click of a button but the longevity and quality of such information and relationships could often be disconnected. The fact that social media is free although it ‘ eats up’ your time is something that people don’t realise till they have fallen deep in to this ‘ trap’. It has also been found that more than 80% of two- year olds play video games because that is the only way that parents could keep them silent for some time, till they get about with their ‘ work’. The fact that these games, with fictional characters, colours and sounds attracts and addicts children is often missed by parents.
Such habits in turn lead to depression, anxiety and other psychological conditions in the long run. Teenagers are often stranded in their own world and they want the love, attention and care during their developing stages. As parents become busier and less attentive towards their children, children too tend to find alternative ways of coping. Hence, social media bridges this void as there are numerous users who are waiting to send friend requests to others and connect.
But as in the good old days, a good conversation with someone over coffee or a good meal makes relationships healthier and stronger.
By Kamanthi Wickramasinghe