The Impact of Digital Technologies on Youth
Today, technology has become an indispensable element, especially for the young generation. Smartphones, tablets and social media platforms have become an inseparable part of young people's lives. However, this situation also brings some problems. In this article, we will examine in depth the relationship of young people with digital technologies and discuss the effects of technology on them.
Age of Using Technology and Its Consequences
Recent studies show that young people start using technology at an earlier age. Especially young people who start using smartphones before the age of 10 are at risk of addiction at a later age. In this case, parental supervision is very important. Technology use without parental supervision can negatively affect young people's general behavior and social relationships.
Problematic Phone Use and Addiction
Studies show that 82% of young people show signs of problematic phone use. This shows that the rate of reaching addiction level is around 20-21%. Social media and digital games in particular are widely used and addictive elements among young people. Social media addiction is more clearly observed in female students and digital game addiction is more clearly observed in male students.
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO)
Fear of missing out is a common condition among young people. It has been determined that this fear is more prevalent among female students. FOMO increases the desire of young people to be constantly active on social media platforms, and this situation can turn into addiction over time. Therefore, it is of great importance for parents and educators to raise awareness in young people on this issue.
Digital Regulations and Their Effects
Some legal regulations made in France aim to address the problem of digital addiction. However, it is seen that such regulations alone are not enough. Because digital addiction also causes negative effects on the academic success of young people. Smartphone addiction directly affects academic success and causes young people to be distracted.
Technology Usage Rates and Young People
While the rate of digital technology use in the 2021-6 age group was 15% in 82, this rate is expected to increase to 2024% in 92. Almost half of young people check their phones every 30 minutes. This is an indication of the desire to constantly stay in the digital world. 81,4% of young people show signs of problematic smartphone use, and 20% have a high risk of addiction.
Solution Suggestions and Educational Materials
In order to overcome these problems, educators and parents need to cooperate. Trainings on conscious technology use should be organized and young people should be made aware of their behavior in the digital world. Young people should be encouraged to develop healthy technology use habits through projects. Educational materials should be developed to reach more people.
Digital Health and Wellness
In conclusion, digital health and wellness issues are of great importance for today's youth. While the place of technology in our lives cannot be denied, it is necessary to raise awareness on how to use these technologies. Parents, educators and youth can use technology in a healthy way by working together.
