Does technology promote loneliness Argumentative Essay
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Technology and Loneliness go Hand-in-Hand
In a world where technology has taken over many aspects of our lives, it would seem as though we are more connected than ever to the people around us. But, has this large influx of technology in such a short amount of time created adverse effects? In the long run, technology makes us more alone because studies have shown that social media negatively affects one's mental health, technology in general greatly decreases outdoor activity, and technology addiction contributes to social skill problems.
To begin with, one major aspect of modern technology is social media. The amount of social media websites grows every day; the most popular being Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat. While these may have a sizeable percentage of young demographics logged on, social media affects people of all ages when it comes to decreased mental health. In addition to feeling lonely, studies have shown that an increased use of social media can lead to anxiety, depression, and memory loss (Morgan). While some may argue that social media technology keeps people connected who may not be able to talk regularly otherwise, nothing compares to the scientific reasons behind meeting people face-to-face. Through technology, humans are not able to pick up on gestures, facial movements, and most of the time do not hear the other person’s voice. This lack of common human communication is what leads to the increased feeling of loneliness, even if you are still talking to a friend through technology (Morgan).
Next, as future generations grow up in a world with technology that advances each day, it is more likely they will not venture outside to play as much as older generations did. As a child, playing outside on a playground or riding bikes with friends is great for development of social skills. But, as more kids choose to stay inside with technology at their fingertips, these lost social skills can contribute to loneliness as they age (Taylor). Although, children are not the only demographic affected. Adults who choose to stay inside with streaming services like Netflix instead of attending community events lose their social skills over time as well. Eventually they can feel as though they cannot go to events at all and their loneliness increases (Morgan).
Finally, loneliness can also stem from technology by addiction. As one becomes obsessed with their digital universe, reality becomes unimportant and they begin to lose their social skills for the real world. Smartphones, streaming sites, and other forms of technology can be so addicting because of the satisfaction it brings to human’s brain and is hard to disconnect from (Viani). Not only is loneliness a problem here, but also a disconnection from the world around us could prove to bring much larger problems in the future.
To conclude, technology today is making us lonelier even if it seems we are more connected than ever. Some people may not realize that metal health can be affected negatively or that lack of outdoor play contributes to this loneliness. In extreme cases, addiction proves to bring out more loneliness than the others combined. It is time to put down the smartphone, turn off the computer, and see people face-to-face to make a difference.
Works Cited
Morgan, Branwen. "Is Technology Making Us Lonely?” ABC News, Australian Broadcasting Corporation, 2 Nov. 2011. Web. 16 July 2018.
Taylor, Jim. "How Technology Is Changing the Way Children Think and Focus.” Psychology Today, Sussex Publishers, 4 Dec. 2012. Web. 16 July 2018.
Viani, Lisa. "Digital Addiction Increases Loneliness, Anxiety and Depression.” SF State News, San Francisco State University, 10 Apr. 2018
