“ Technology is wonderful when used for good , but most people agree that technology can be terrible when misused .”
Tech addiction is brain-based . In simple terms , a network of brain systems drives us to seek out experiences that bring us pleasure — whether that ’ s scrolling through social media , eating a hot fudge sundae , or petting the dog . The prefrontal cortex ( the brain ’ s CEO in charge of executive functions , focus , goals , and logical thinking ) helps keep unhealthy urges in check when we are about to engage in risky actions or behaviors that don ’ t serve us . The problem is that the PFC is not fully matured until the mid-to-late twenties . This means tweens , teens , and young adults are more vulnerable to developing unhealthy habits and falling into addictive behavior .
Thrill seeking and avoidance . Addictions develop under some identifiable conditions : First , the substance or activity is highly stimulating or allows the user to escape from some aspect of their life that feels dull or painful . In our clinical practices , we see many who use gaming , social media , and other digital distractions to escape from social or family pain .
Unpredictability . The second principle is the unpredictability of the desired thrill or escape . Will the next YouTube video or Instagram post make you laugh or learn something new ? It can keep you — and your fully mature adult brain — hostage for hours , wading through a lot of nonsense . So imagine the impact this can have on your child ’ s developing brain .
FOMO ( fear of missing out ). This shackles many digital device users to their keyboards and screens . Social media isn ’ t the only contributor to FOMO . Even a simple online search leaves the user mostly encountering uninteresting content . After a random number of clicks , however , they eventually find something exciting or interesting .
The need for attention . A bit of being seen and sharing the exciting details of your life is healthy and relational . Too much creates an insatiable quest to be the center of attention . Since this unhealthy behavior can elicit just enough online accolades to trigger a dopamine rush , it ’ s easy to see why so many people become addicted to it .
Desire based on social comparison . Enhanced images of beauty , shiny new gadgets , and “ new and improved ” features draw in kids of all ages — making them want more stuff , more beauty , more money . Both girls and boys see images and ads and compare themselves with what others have . Unfortunately , many become addicted to pursuing impossible , impractical , and unhealthy goals .
“ Technology is wonderful when used for good , but most people agree that technology can be terrible when misused .”
Evil . Without a doubt , there are people whose behavior is sadistic and opportunistic . These individuals prey on teens and use manipulation to leave them feeling excited and hopeful — then shamed and fearful . We must help our children spot manipulation and be cautious about who they interact with online .
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