Digital Dependency

With the rapid advancement of technology, together; the internet, smartphones, computers, and other digital devices have become indispensable parts of our lives. Access to information has become easier, interpersonal communication has accelerated, and many daily tasks have been migrated to digital environments. However, this fast transformation also opens the door to individuals losing control over their relationship with technology. This situation has led to the emergence of a serious problem known as digital addiction. Digital addiction is defined as individuals using technology uncontrollably, resulting in negative impacts on their social, physical, and psychological lives.

Definition and Types of Digital Addiction

Digital addiction is the condition in which the use of technology and the internet becomes uncontrollable. It has different forms and can manifest in various ways depending on the individual’s age, profession, social environment such as factors. It occurs when individuals use the internet excessively and weaken their connections with the real world. News websites, blogs, and forums are among the most common areas of this addiction.

Social Media and Gaming Addiction

This can be defined as spending excessive time on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, and TikTok while distancing oneself from real-life social relationships. The desire for likes and approval acts as a key trigger for this addiction. Spending hours on computer, console and mobile games, being unable to control playtime, and neglecting academic and social life are key characteristics of this addiction.

Smartphone and Digital Content Addiction

Feeling the constant need to check notifications, experiencing restlessness without access to devices, and becoming dependent on digital environments instead of physical interactions are symptoms of this type of addiction. Constantly watching series, film and video on platforms such as Netflix and YouTube is also considered a form of addiction.

Causes of Digital Addiction

The root causes of digital addiction lie in biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.

1. Dopamine Effect in the Brain: Especially social media platforms can activate the dopamine hormone, part of the brain’s reward system, leading to addiction.

2. Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): The constant desire to stay updated on current events stems from the fear of missing out on new developments.

3. Easy Access and Habits: With the 21st century, faster and easier access to social media and digital elements has increased addictions and placed digital products at the center of our lives.

4. Use as a Coping Mechanism for Stress and Anxiety: Especially among younger generations, digital elements have come to the forefront as tools to avoid life’s problems and intense stress.

Effects of Digital Addiction

Addiction can produce negative effects at both individual and societal levels.

1. Psychological Effects: Depression, Anxiety, concentration problems

2. Physical Effects: Eye strain, insomnia, posture disorders

3. Social and Academic Effects: Isolation, decline in academic performance

Ways to Cope with Digital Addiction

Individual Solutions

1. Set limits on technology use.

2. Digital detox to do.

3. Increase physical activity.

Familial and Societal Solutions

1. Families should support conscious technology use.

2. Increase awareness programs in schools.

Education and Awareness

1. Widen access to digital literacy education.

2. Encourage technology companies to develop conscious usage policies.

Digital addiction poses a significant threat to the global community. Embracing conscious and controlled technology use is critically important for mental and society health.