Here is a psychological perspective to analyze this phenomenon:
When Does It Become Negative Addiction?
Psychology typically views teenagers' use of electronics as a problem when it crosses into the realm of behavioral addiction. The sign is when electronics are no longer a tool, but an escape.
- Instant Dopamine: Social media and games are designed with fast reward systems. This trains teenagers' brains to crave instant gratification, which can reduce their ability to focus on long-term tasks (like studying).
- Escapism: Teenagers often use screens to run away from social anxiety or academic pressure. When this happens, they lose the opportunity to learn how to cope with problems in the real world.
- Impaired Functioning: It is considered negative if it disrupts sleep cycles, eating patterns, face-to-face interactions, and school responsibilities.
Can It Be "Positive Addiction"?
Psychology prefers to call it "High Productive Engagement" rather than addiction. Electronics can have a positive impact if their use is active, not passive.
- Identity Exploration: Teenagers who are "hooked" on video editing, learning coding, or graphic design are actually building future skills.
- Social Connection: For teenagers who feel isolated in their physical environment, healthy online communities can be an important source of emotional support.
- Digital Literacy: Being familiar with technology makes them more adaptable to changing times.
Critical Point: Control vs Compulsion
Psychology emphasizes that teenagers are in a stage of brain development where the prefrontal cortex (the center of self-control) is not yet fully mature. That is why they are more vulnerable to falling into negative addiction compared to adults.
So, the psychological perspective does not see electronic devices as the enemy, but rather how teenagers use them.
- If they use screens to create something, it leads to positive outcomes.
- If they use screens only to consume content non-stop until they neglect the real world, it is negative addiction.