Technology, social media and stress: Doctors explain how they affect teen brains

Teenagers are exposed to technology and social media. From online classes to building their social skills, they are exposed to technology from an early age. In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Madhukar Bhardwaj, Director and HOD Neurology, Aakash Healthcare, said, “Teens are often early and savvy users, and are fast inventors of the use of technology. This may create new vulnerabilities, but also new positives, especially the use of technology to promote healthy education and development. Read this also Use of technological devices affects children’s brain development: Research

Excessive use of technology can cause stress:

“However, too much reliability of technology leads to less practical experiences in real life rather than virtual life, resulting in excessive gadget use. This certainly creates tension in the competitive social environment. This is definitely a strong vulnerability. This creates stress which increases with repeated technology use which is addictive and causes social isolation. This again defeats the basic purpose of the so-called social environment on technology,” the neurologist explained. Read this also Understanding and Managing Children’s Gadget Addiction: Practical Strategies for Parents

double edged sword of technology

The doctor considered a study that found that excessive use of technology could make teens more sensitive to social rewards and punishments. “This certainly creates stress, especially in a competitive social environment. Adolescents’ cognitive development can be affected by their almost constant access to technology and the Internet. This is certainly a strong vulnerability,” he said.

Vicious cycle of stress and isolation

“They may be exposed to potentially harmful information, face Internet harassment or online hatred, and are subject to identity theft, unwanted sexual advances, and sexual predation. This creates stress that frequently leads to technology Use increases which is addictive and causes social isolation. Constant virtual connections can impair teens’ memory capacity or ability to engage in effortful thinking,” the doctor said as he explained the stress on teens’ brains. Noted the side effects of excessive use of technology Was. Read this also Do computers make children ‘not intelligent, but stupid’?

need for balance

It is essential to strike a balance between the use of technology and real-world experiences. Parents and guardians need to be vigilant about their teens’ technology use and social media exposure. Setting limits for screen time can ensure a balanced approach for young minds. Read this also Are your children using digital media excessively? Recognizing the signs of overuse and how parents can help

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.