Technology Overuse

 

 

Technology has become an unavoidable part of our lives in the 21st century. In my therapeutic work, I have seen the negative effects it can have on young people and their developing brains. I am witnessing attentional issues that mimic ADHD symptoms and seeing an increase in anxiety and depression. I’ve also observed an escalated anger response from clients when it comes to limiting their use of devices.

Families come to me for help in dealing with power struggles over setting these limits. The overuse of technology can lead to social anxiety from a lack of face-to-face interaction and less awareness of social nuances. Many young people have a more difficult time focusing, and for some, their usage affects the quality of sleep they are getting each night. There may also be decreased motivation to organize and perform tasks that are off-screen, such as schoolwork and chores.

Technology overuse is one of the most common areas I work on with clients and their families.

 

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