Technology Addiction After the Holidays
The new academic year begins for everyone, and both minors and adults must return to daily responsibilities. In the coming weeks, we will experience the dizzying pace of reunions, the need for adaptation, and a media environment that stirs to capture our attention. In a friendly version, we return to normality after having “recharged our batteries.” But, in some cases, the combination of these three elements can affect behavior. And, in this way, lead to abusive use and technology addiction.
The first days of September are often seen as a new beginning, as it marks the return to work. It has been proven that there are even changes in internet traffic during holiday periods. The reasons can be varied: parents have to look after their children, travel away from their usual place of residence, employees on vacation, etc. In one way or another, the use of technological devices decreases. This trend reverses in September, with a rebound effect to make up for lost time.
The effect of device use in daily life risks exceeding utility and becoming abuse. Concern for young people has already led to France banning mobile phones in educational centers. The Spanish Government has also stated that the proposal is being studied with experts, and a debate will be raised soon. The Minister of Education and Vocational Training, Isabel Celaá, adds that we must reflect on whether school time should be free from technology addiction.
It is increasingly clear that we must be aware of how we use technology, in every sense!
Factors that Promote Technology Addiction
Seeing friends and former colleagues again will foster social relationships and, consequently, the use of mobile phones. Sharing photos, memories, etc., is a good way to connect with your environment. On the other hand, it can also increase dependence and end up generating addiction.
Another typical reaction of the season is the activation of the desire to be fully prepared to face future challenges. If summer is “for resting and having fun,” the start of the academic year is for demonstrating everything we are capable of doing. In this way, it is a mixture of seeking security, self-realization, and social emulation. Many feel the need to acquire the latest models in technological gadgets. As these will provide them with an extra boost in the development of their functions. We are in a situation where consumerism and a certain degree of emotional stress can converge.
Finally, advertising and the media take advantage of this period to launch their largest campaigns, with renewed reinforcement of advertising messages and seasonal promotions. Unintentionally, they can contribute, in their negative aspect, to fostering consumerism and generating the false need to acquire the latest novelties.
Effects of Technology Addiction
The harmful use of technologies can create personality disorders and addictive behaviors. According to the World Health Organization, one in four people suffers from this reality. And in Spain, it is estimated to be between 6 and 9 percent of regular internet users.
Adolescents represent the most vulnerable group to technology addiction. One of the primary causes is the need to temporarily escape everyday life. This is due to a lack of security and self-esteem, which they seek to compensate for in virtual environments where they project an ideal and unrealistic image of themselves.
Television is also an important factor. This is usually reinforced by the habit of assigning to this screen – as to others – the role of “babysitter.” Technology addiction can be caused by a psychological problem. This seeks a place of refuge to compensate for perceived deficiencies, real or not.
Treatment for Technology Addiction
In adults, dependence on technological devices is often associated with stress problems and/or anxiety generated during work activity. Engaging in other activities and taking small breaks can be beneficial in alleviating addiction symptoms. These tips can help you:
- Keep your mind occupied
- Have moral support from family and friends
- Lead a healthy life
- Perform tasks and assume responsibilities outside of your usual routine
- Limit the time spent using technology
If the situation worsens, it is advisable to seek professional help to reduce the effects and initiate appropriate treatment to eliminate technology addiction.
