Screen addiction has become a worrying phenomenon in our hyper-connected society. This psychological disorder is characterized by an excessive dependence on digital devices that affects daily life and mental health. This article explores the mechanisms, signs and consequences of this addiction, while proposing prevention and treatment strategies.
When do we talk about screen addiction?
Definition
Screen addiction is characterized by excessive and compulsive use of digital devices, with negative repercussions on daily life. According to Xu, Tedrick, and Gold (2022), this addiction is often confused with abuse, but the distinction is crucial for treatment REF [^1^].
Smartphone abuse
The smartphone is often at the heart of this addiction, with use that goes beyond functional needs to become a compulsive habit. This is exacerbated by easy access to a multitude of applications and social networks.
What are the signs of screen addiction?
Exacerbated screen behavior
These behaviors include prolonged screen use, inability to disconnect and neglect of daily activities. This has an impact on both personal and professional life.
Impact on social isolation
Screen addiction can lead to social withdrawal. The individuals concerned prefer to interact with their devices rather than those around them.
Factors contributing to loss of control
This can include psychological factors such as stress, anxiety or mood disorders. In some extreme cases, this can lead to total drift.
Anxiety and stress linked to screen addiction
Excessive screen use is often associated with high levels of anxiety and stress. A study by Solon Júnior et al (2021) found significant correlations between smartphone addiction and symptoms of anxiety, depression, stress, tension, confusion and insomnia REF[^2^].
How screen addiction can lead to social isolation
Addiction can reduce direct social interaction, increasing feelings of isolation. At the same time, it affects the quality of personal relationships.
Addiction to video games and smartphones
These forms of addiction are of particular concern because of their impact on behavior and mental health. The disorder is also likely to affect general well-being.
Why such an addiction?
There are many reasons for this. These include the search for instant gratification, escape from reality or underlying problems such as depression.
What are the consequences of screen addiction on mental health?
Excessive exposure to screens and its implications for mental health
Excessive use can lead to sleep disorders, depression and other mental health problems. What's more, overexposure can impair concentration and attention span. This will impact on performance at work or school.
Link between screen addiction and increased anxiety
Studies have shown a direct link between excessive screen use and increased levels of anxiety. It also contributes to a general feeling of malaise.
Impact on social relations and withdrawal
Screen addiction can lead to a deterioration in social relationships. This can lead to a decrease in face-to-face interactions, essential for the development and maintenance of healthy relationships. Feelings of loneliness and misunderstanding will also be exacerbated.
The links between screen addiction and an unbalanced diet
Screen addiction can lead to unbalanced eating habits. These are often characterized by snacking or neglect of healthy eating, due to distraction and diminished awareness of real hunger.
Is it a pathology?
This form of screen addiction can be considered a form of behavioral disorder. It requires appropriate attention and treatment. Managing cyberaddiction in adolescents requires a proactive approach. This includes setting clear rules.
How can we prevent addiction in teenagers and adults?
Regulating screen time among teenagers
It's best to set clear limits on screen use for young people. This means setting specific times for the use of digital devices, encouraging regular breaks and promoting off-screen activities.
Strategies for limiting excessive screen use in adults
This can include setting up screen-free routines, promoting alternative activities and seeking professional support where necessary.
The importance of balanced use of tablets and smartphones
It's essential to encourage responsible and balanced use of digital devices. The aim of all this is to develop a healthy balance between time spent online and interactions in the real world.
The influence of online video games on screen addiction
Online games can be particularly addictive due to their immersive and interactive nature. This addiction is often reinforced by reward systems and online communities. These encourage players to spend long hours in front of their screens, sometimes to the detriment of their daily activities and responsibilities.
The role of public health in preventing screen addiction
Public health initiatives can play a key role in raising awareness and preventing screen addiction. By providing educational resources, organizing awareness campaigns and working with schools and communities, they can help establish healthy screen habits from an early age.
How to limit the risks?
Discover approaches to combat this type of addiction
This can include behavioral therapies, psychological interventions and support from loved ones. Involvement in group activities or leisure pursuits can also help reduce dependency.
Different forms of therapy for screen addiction
Therapies can range from cognitive-behavioral therapy to more holistic approaches. The integration of mindfulness and stress management techniques can also be beneficial in this treatment process.
How can we encourage screen time to be devoted to other activities?
To reduce this addiction, we need to encourage alternative activities that promote social interaction, physical exercise and creative leisure. This can include planning family activities, playing sports or taking part in artistic or educational workshops. These alternatives can help to gradually reduce screen time and enrich the daily experience.
Is screen addiction a form of behavioral addiction?
Yes, screen addiction is often classified as a behavioral addiction, similar to gambling addiction. This classification underlines the importance of approaching this disorder with therapeutic strategies adapted to behavioral addictions.
Managing the social isolation caused by screen addiction
It is important to recognize and treat social isolation as a consequence of screen addiction. Initiatives such as support groups or community activities can help reintegrate those affected socially.
In conclusion,
Screen addiction is a complex problem requiring a multidimensional approach to prevention and treatment. Awareness and concrete action are essential to manage this growing phenomenon. Collective action is essential. This new form of addiction requires the involvement of individuals, families, healthcare professionals and institutions, to develop effective and sustainable strategies against this modern challenge.
Disclaimer
This article is for information purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice.
References
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