Have you ever opened a social media application intending to spend\njust a few minutes, only to find that hours have passed unnoticed? This\nphenomenon is increasingly common among young people. The presence of\nsmartphones, social media platforms, and various digital applications\nhas made screens an inseparable element of daily life. From studying and\nworking to seeking entertainment and communicating, all activities can\nnow be conducted through a single device in our hands. Data indicates\nthat Indonesian citizens are active users of the internet and social\nmedia. However, this high level of technology usage raises a new\nquestion: why is the younger generation finding it increasingly\ndifficult to distance themselves from screens?<\/p>\n
One reason is that digital platforms are deliberately designed to\ncapture users\u2019 attention for as long as possible. Features such as\ninfinite scrolling, instant notifications, and algorithms that display\ncontent tailored to individual preferences create a constant urge to\nreopen applications. Every time we encounter interesting content, the\nbrain receives a stimulus that triggers a sense of satisfaction,\nprompting a desire to keep scrolling.<\/p>\n
Beyond technical factors, there are also social drivers. Social media\nhas become the primary space for young people to develop their identity,\nseek information, and interact with their surroundings. Many experience\na fear of missing out on the latest news or trends if they are not\nactive in the digital sphere. This phenomenon, known as FOMO, creates\nanxiety about being left behind from the activities of others.<\/p>\n
Ironically, being more connected digitally does not always translate\nto closer social relationships. Various studies show that excessive\nsocial media use can affect the quality of face-to-face interactions,\nconcentration, and mental health. Many young people have hundreds of\nfriends online yet still feel lonely in the real world.<\/p>\n
This situation does not mean that technology should be avoided.\nTechnology has provided significant advantages in education,\ncommunication, and access to information. However, unregulated use can\nlead to dependency that disrupts an individual\u2019s life balance.\nTherefore, digital literacy must encompass not only the ability to use\ntechnology but also the capacity to control its use. The younger\ngeneration needs to realise that attention is a valuable asset. The\nability to occasionally disconnect from screens, engage in direct\ninteractions, and manage time spent on digital media is becoming an\nessential skill in the modern era. Ultimately, the greatest challenge\nfacing the younger generation today is not how to gain access to\ntechnology, but how to remain in control of it rather than being\ncontrolled by it.<\/p>", "url": "https:\/\/jawawa.id\/newsitem\/why-the-younger-generation-finds-it-hard-to-disconnect-from-screens-1782467444", "image": "" }, "sponsor": "Okusi Associates", "sponsor_url": "https:\/\/okusiassociates.com" }