The Negative Effects of Modern Technology

There are many disadvantages of technology, but not all are disadvantages in the technological sense of the word. The most obvious of these disadvantages of technology is that it reduces the complexity of life to a few buttons and commands. This type of reductionism robs people of their desire to participate in the world and take part in the more complicated processes of life. The reductionist tendencies of modern society have resulted in a rather disordered society and a less than perfect world in some regards. While this is not always intentional, the result is an inefficient society with negative effects of technology on the health of its citizens.

It Affects the mental health

The short answer: Digital devices and high-tech smartphones can reduce your mental health. Technology has the potential to affect physical health but must first consider its negative effects on social skills and mental health, as well. The modern digital world allows people to connect with others at a much deeper level than ever before. Social interaction is important for both emotional and physical health and the rise of social media has almost certainly increased the level of engagement that people have in both arenas. However, the increased level of connectivity may also cause people to become disconnected from their own emotions and mental states.

Overused Devices

One recent study found that nearly half of college students overused at least one digital device while they were enrolled in the class. A survey of students found that those who used their smartphone to access class information spent an average of eleven hours daily on phones. Another recent study found that smartphone overuse was associated with poorer academic achievement. Those who used their phone for everything except making calls enjoyed a higher self esteem and performed better in school on a measure of mental health than those who did not use their phones.

Deprives Social Skills

The results of the study of college students were particularly troubling. Those who used their phones exclusively to fill in forms fell significantly lower in both leadership and social skills. Those who participated in social networks had higher leadership and social skills and lower time management skills. The results for those who did not participate in social networks were more mixed. It is unclear why this occurs. Perhaps users do not need to be engaged in social activities in order to boost their mental health.

Technology appears to have some negative effects on children. A recent study found that more teens are spending excessively long hours in front of a screen. This includes playing video games or using mobile devices that connect to the Internet. The increase in screen time appears to be having an impact on educational performance in school. A significant number of students said that technology was a factor in their grades.

In sum, technology may have some negative effects on society. People have become polarized about it in a way that mirrors larger social trends. People are worrying about the negative effects of a "going green" movement and are turning away from electronic gadgets in favor of more environmentally friendly devices. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more detailed research on the effect of technology on society. For now, people must do what they can to minimize the negative effects of technology.