Written by: Sakina Burhani
Email: sakinaburhani05@gmail.com
Introduction
In this modern era, technology's multifaceted impact on our lives reveals a nuanced relationship, influencing both positive and negative facets of our social well-being. From a biological perspective, our inherent need for social connections is deeply ingrained, and the intricate ways in which technology shapes these interactions can have profound implications on our overall health and happiness.
Figure 1. A depiction of the connection of the brain and our hands when using technology.
The Positive Narrative: Connectivity Amidst Digital Spaces
The digital landscape presents an array of communication platforms—Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook, WhatsApp, and texting—offering seemingly endless ways to connect with others. However, the captivating allure of these digital spaces raises poignant questions about the nature of our connections and whether the proliferation of communication channels is fostering true intimacy. As observed by 'The New York Times': "We have so many new ways of communicating, yet we are so alone." It prompts a reflection on the quality of our digital interactions in an age where quantity often overshadows depth.
Contrary to the prevailing concerns, some individuals argue for a positive perspective on technology. Setting limits on its usage, as emphasized in 'The New York Times,' brings relationships into sharper focus. By curbing the incessant digital distractions, people find that relationships become more authentic. In this context, individuals are not just idealized projections in curated social media narratives but rather real people, fostering genuine connections that go beyond the digital facade.
The Negative Aspect: Addiction and Isolation
Beyond the realm of connectivity, the addictive nature of technology has emerged as a pressing concern. The ease with which individuals can immerse themselves in digital realms raises questions about the line between healthy engagement and addictive behaviors. The repetitive nature of checking notifications and the quest for instant gratification through likes and comments can create a dopamine loop, potentially leading to addictive tendencies. This phenomenon demands a closer examination of the psychological and neurological underpinnings of our digital interactions.
Further exacerbating the negative impact, recent research highlighted by 'The Independent' suggests that loneliness may be on the verge of becoming a significant health issue, potentially rivaling obesity in its impact on well-being. The irony lies in the fact that while technology provides numerous avenues for connectivity, it might paradoxically contribute to feelings of isolation. Striking a balance between virtual interactions and genuine face-to-face connections becomes imperative for addressing this emerging health concern.
Biological Underpinnings: Neurotransmitters and Behavioral Patterns
Delving into the biological realm, the impact of technology extends to the intricate workings of our brain's reward system. Prolonged engagement with social media and messaging apps triggers the release of dopamine in the brain's reward centers. This chemical reward system reinforces behaviors, potentially leading to addictive tendencies. The anticipation of likes and comments becomes a repetitive cycle, impacting our biological responses and laying the groundwork for habitual use.
The overstimulation from screens, especially before bedtime, introduces another layer of complexity. It interferes with melatonin production, the hormone regulating sleep-wake cycles. Disrupted circadian rhythms not only compromise sleep quality but also have cascading effects on cognitive functions, emotional regulation, and overall mental well-being. Understanding the intricate interplay between technology and sleep patterns underscores the need for mindful consumption of digital content, especially during nighttime hours.
Serotonin and Mood Regulation
Beyond the immediate impact on sleep, the constant exposure to the blue light emitted by screens affects serotonin production—a neurotransmitter crucial for mood regulation. Disturbances in serotonin levels are linked to mood disorders such as anxiety and depression. As smartphones become ubiquitous companions, particularly in low-light conditions, the potential for alterations in mood and emotional states comes to the forefront. Recognizing these nuanced effects necessitates a more comprehensive approach to assessing the mental well-being implications of prolonged screen time.
The Physical Impact: Sedentary Lifestyles and Health
Beyond the intricate workings of the brain, technology has significantly influenced our physical well-being. The pervasive use of smartphones, computers, and other digital devices often leads to sedentary lifestyles. Whether engrossed in social media, streaming content, or working remotely, individuals spend extended periods in a seated position, contributing to a lack of physical activity. This sedentary behavior is closely linked to various health concerns, including obesity, cardiovascular issues, and musculoskeletal problems.
The implications of prolonged sitting and reduced physical activity are vast. Obesity, a pressing global health issue, is exacerbated by the decrease in energy expenditure associated with sedentary lifestyles. Moreover, cardiovascular health is compromised as the lack of movement hinders blood circulation and contributes to conditions like hypertension. Musculoskeletal problems, including back pain and posture-related issues, have become more prevalent as people spend extended hours hunched over screens.
As technology continues to redefine the way we work, communicate, and entertain ourselves, addressing the physical impact becomes crucial. Encouraging breaks for movement, incorporating physical activity into daily routines, and promoting ergonomic practices are essential for mitigating the negative effects of sedentary behavior. Balancing the convenience of technology with mindful attention to physical health is vital for achieving holistic well-being in the digital age.
The "Social Brain": Virtual vs. In-Person Interactions
While technology enables virtual social interactions, the nuances of face-to-face communication, including non-verbal cues and emotional expressions, are often lost. This potential gap in social processing abilities may impact the depth and understanding of social cues and emotions over time. The intricate network of the "social brain" is finely tuned for in-person interactions, and the shift towards digital communication poses challenges in maintaining the richness of these social connections.
Recognizing the value of in-person interactions becomes crucial. Striking a balance between the convenience of digital communication and the biological imperatives of face-to-face connections is essential for sustaining the intricacies of the "social brain." Intentional efforts to weave digital interactions into the fabric of real-world relationships can help preserve the depth and authenticity of human connections.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the intricate dance between technology and social well-being requires a nuanced understanding of both the positive and negative aspects. The biological ramifications of technology underscore the importance of moderation. Finding a balance between the convenience offered by smartphones and the biological needs of the brain, such as quality sleep and in-person social interactions, becomes crucial. By being mindful of these biological processes, individuals can make informed choices about their technology usage, fostering a healthier relationship with these digital tools while preserving the intricate balance within the brain.
Bibliography
Cano, Jennifer. “The Complete 2023 Guide to Content Formats and Types on Instagram.” Stellar, 12 Dec. 2022, stellar.io/resources/influence-marketing-blog/guide-instagram-formats-content/. Accessed 19 Nov. 2023.
Cleveland Clinic. “Serotonin: What Is It, Function & Levels.” Cleveland Clinic, 18 Mar. 2022, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/22572-serotonin.
Dolan, Eric W. “Listening to the Music You Love Will Make Your Brain Release More Dopamine, Study Finds.” PsyPost, PsyPost, 2 Feb. 2019, www.psypost.org/2019/02/listening-to-the-music-you-love-will-make-your-brain-release-more-dopamine-study-finds-53059.
“Emotion Regulation | Psychology Today.” Www.psychologytoday.com, www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/emotion-regulation#:~:text=Emotion%20regulation%20is%20the%20ability.
Kaspersky. “How Does Technology Affect Your Physical Health?” Usa.kaspersky.com, 3 Sept. 2021, usa.kaspersky.com/resource-center/preemptive-safety/impacts-of-technology-on-healt
Marr, Bernard. “Digital Addiction: Should You Be Worried?” Forbes, www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2023/01/11/digital-addiction-should-you-be-worried/
Salehi, Bahare, et al. “Melatonin in Medicinal and Food Plants: Occurrence, Bioavailability, and Health Potential for Humans.” Cells, vol. 8, no. 7, July 2019, https://doi.org/10.3390/cells8070681.
“The Question Concerning Technology and Biology.” En-Humanities.tau.ac.il, en-humanities.tau.ac.il/cohn/the_question_concerning_technology_and_biology. Accessed 19 Nov. 2023.
Tordjman, Sylvie, et al. “Melatonin: Pharmacology, Functions and Therapeutic Benefits.” Current Neuropharmacology, vol. 15, no. 3, Feb. 2017, pp. 434–43, https://doi.org/10.2174/1570159x14666161228122115.
Turkle, Sherry. “The Flight from Conversation.” The New York Times, 21 Apr. 2012, www.nytimes.com/2012/04/22/opinion/sunday/the-flight-from-conversation.html.
Comments