We’ve reached the point where the glow of our phones has become a backdrop to every memory, conversation, and experience we have each day. Phones sit with us at the lunch table, follow us to bed, and constantly distract us from what is right in front of us. I often catch my thumbs scrolling on autopilot, and chasing the brief happiness that follows with the sound of a notification. With reflection and consideration, I have realized that not only do I spend too much time on my phone, but all students could do better by lessening time attached to their screens.
The realization hit me hardest on a monumental day for all who have a passion for media and a short attention span: The day the beloved app TikTok was banned.
In a desperate attempt to “reboot” the app, I deleted TikTok, only to find out that I had permanently lost the app. I didn’t know where to turn. Instagram? Snapchat? YouTube? I hate to admit it, but for a brief moment, something felt empty. From missing out on my friends’ videos to the comfort of scrolling through the app, I had no choice but to disassociate from a habit that had become intertwined with my everyday life.
I came to the realization that I was not only addicted to the app, but I was addicted to its source: my phone. Addicted is a strong word – but it accurately describes the relationship between me and the device that follows me everywhere.
Phones act as a double-edged sword– they enable and encourage connection, entertainment, and information in an easily accessible manner. These devices enable on-demand contact for family, friends, colleagues, bosses–you can contact almost anyone you please with the click of a button through these revolutionary devices. The convenient size, small enough to fit into the palm of your hand, is convenient as well. These products have potential, but what’s the cost?
Research shows that phones reduce cognitive capability. The more intense a user you are, the more costs for those who are phone-dependent. I think it’s worth asking yourself, “How dependent are these devices in affecting the way I think and make decisions, let alone function in the real world?”
Answers may vary person to person, but trends are clear: younger generations are declining in social and emotional skills. Harsh right? But if you take a step back, it points almost directly to the increased use of smartphones.
Studies show that in exchange for empathy, extrovertism, and persistence, younger generations tend to live in heightened amounts of neurotic behavior and anxiety. Reliance on our phones is partly to blame, as they have excused real connection in exchange for isolation. Extroversion is increased by face-to-face socialization. The less you connect with others, the less extroverted you feel. Ironically, “social” media is making us more antisocial than ever.
Phones replace social connections crucial for young adults, and they’re leading people away from human ones as well. Humans are designed to connect with others. People naturally yearn for relationships with each other. I argue that these connections are intangible through devices. Phones will never replace the fundamental need for human face-to-face connection. With a reliance on our devices to try and fill these needs, humans become less human-like.
71% of people admit to spending more time on their phone than with their romantic partner. Being online this much compared to real human connection is unhealthy, and takes away from components necessary in developing any relationship- especially one with mindfulness.
It’s time for screens to stop dictating the rhythm of our lives. Although they offer an array of useful tools, they strip away connection, and more importantly, happiness. As a community, we need to work together to stay true to what is better for our livelihoods and general well-being.
