Adolescents today are immersed in technology from a young age, whether through online education or social media, shaping their learning and social experiences. Dr. Madhukar Bhardwaj, Director and Head of Neurology at Aakash Healthcare, highlights that teenagers are often adept at adopting and innovating with technology. While this opens up opportunities for growth, it also introduces certain vulnerabilities. He explains, “Adolescents are often early and savvy users, and fast innovators of technology use. This may create new vulnerabilities, but also creates new positives, particularly the use of technology to promote healthy learning and development.”
However, there is a downside to this early exposure to technology. Dr. Bhardwaj warns that an over-reliance on digital devices can lead to a lack of real-world experiences, making young individuals overly dependent on gadgets. “Too much of technology reliability leads to less hands-on experiences in real life, which leads to over gadget use,” he says, emphasizing the negative impact on physical and social well-being.
The overuse of technology can also contribute to increased stress levels. In today’s hyper-competitive social environment, adolescents feel pressure from constant online interactions and comparisons. This can result in social isolation, as the virtual world becomes more comforting than real-life connections. “Repeated tech use is addictive and causes social isolation, which defeats the very purpose of a social environment,” Dr. Bhardwaj explains.
Moreover, research suggests that constant exposure to technology may affect teenagers’ cognitive development. Their susceptibility to social rewards and punishments online can intensify stress and anxiety. This reflects the complex role technology plays in shaping adolescents’ mental health and social lives, highlighting both the benefits and the potential risks.
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