Loweflow

Technology Addiction

15 million people in the United States use the internet every day. Every three months the rate of use increases by 25% ] As the number of users increases, so do the number of side effects. Two major problems are technology addiction and anxiety. Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh have linked depression symptoms in teens to exposure of electronic media. Furthermore it has been shown that for each hour of daily television viewed, the associated dissconection anxiety increases and participants had significantly greater odds of developing depression. 84% of college counselors agree that Internet Addiction Disorder is a serious problem that is having a disruptive effect on students learning. .

According to definition, "Disconnectivity anxiety typically presents itself during a breakdown in the technology that makes communication today instantaneous and continuous." Therefore any form of technology that allows instant communication. such as:

• Telephone
• Internet
• Text or Instant messaging
• or any other situation where someone does not respond immediately

"Disconnectivity anxiety is associated with symptoms of worry, negative emotions, such as fear, anger, frustration, and despair, and physical distress. The only short-term relief is restoration of the connection."

How To Unplug

For many people Unplugging will be very difficult. Most will experience some sort of Disconnection Anxiety. This anxiety will eventually dissipate as you gain an understanding of the role that technology plays in your every day routine. Dr. Jim Taylor of Mobility Digest suggests this exersize as a good way to understand that technology, and connectivity, is a useful tool that can make life easier, not be the master to whom you serve.

While disconnected:

• Enjoy being in the moment more and your relationships may improve too.

• Change the meaning that connectivity has for you by disconnecting your connectivity from your self-esteem. Consider what really makes you feel good about yourself—your values, your life’s activities, your relationships, your good works. Also, recognize the absurdity of having your connectivity impact how you value yourself.

• Change your attitude toward connectivity. See being disconnected as a positive ratherthan a negative, perhaps as a form of liberation, not unlike a dog being let off his leash for a while who can now run free.

• Look for ways in which you can actually use disconnection to enrich your life. See disconnected times as opportunities to be in the here and now with people or activities. Think about how disconnection from the virtual world can allow you to build and strengthen real connections with real people in the real world. Look for occasions where you can actually embrace being disconnected, for example, where you need to totally focused on a project at work with no distractions, while having dinner out, being with your family or friends, or getting some exercise.

External Links

Video Game Addiction Dangers of Computer Game Addiction Healthy Place