Common knowledge can tell modern-day gadgets could augment one’s social status since they symbolize hi-tech lifeways; their absence causes one to be “outdated”. Users of gadgets excel in exploring digital information. This is because computerized gadgets facilitate searches for any information and the sharing of the same. The convenient strategy in searching for information helps users improve their search and methods of sharing information. Depending on “the level of ownership and usage”, gadgets can be utilized in a “more sophisticated and dynamic manner”.
Indeed, electronic software like tablets, iPads, and smartphones can perform amazing functions in various ways such as storing data, taking pictures or recording videos, sharing information, document writing, internet surfing, and many more. The various applications of these technological devices enable users to communicate, socialize, and do many other activities. But while these gadgets prove useful for personal ends, social interactions, and entertainment, they have disadvantages for younger users who have developed some kind of dependence upon them, as though they can’t live life without them. Not only that, but these youngsters spend much of their time each day on gadgets, wasting it thus instead of using time wisely and productively.
Many of our children and young people have become gadget addicts as evidenced by their dependence on, and inability to part from, these items. Their prolonged and frequent use of gadgets, especially for emotional support, are signs of gadget addiction. This inability to regulate and use the gadgets moderately causes a behavioral problem, resulting in a stunted and abnormal lifestyle. Such gadget addiction further makes a person compulsive, obsessed, and unable to manage daily activities and live a normal life. The worst part is that, when the functions of daily life are affected, that means there is an emotional disturbance and disorientation—this, in short, is a mental problem.
Aside from their inability to control, conceal, and limit gadget use, gadget addicts also show symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress. Gadget users who attempt to regulate and reduce usage frequency eventually suffer from mental problems, and their failure to control the excessive use of gadgets causes them to experience the symptoms of anger, tiredness, restlessness, and extreme emotions, especially if they fail to surf the Internet. And the culprits causing this serious gadget addiction are the increasing number of social communication apps like WeChat, WhatsApp, Telegram, and soc-med applications such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, as well as online and digital games.
The prevalent gadget use will for sure heighten addiction and dependency on the part of our kids, thus affecting their lifestyle and future. Although studies show that gadgets are extremely useful when utilized properly and productively, using them otherwise is harmful to our youths unless some antidotes and alternatives are introduced. Some such alternatives to gadgets have been recommended by experts, but not much is done to reintroduce indigenous toys as items that could divert their attention from addictive gadgetry, hence this article.
