The Negative Effects Of The Internet And Cell Phones

Introduction

Statement of Task

Most children in the United States get a cell phone or other hand held device at the ripe age of around 15 years old (Davis). The effects of the widespread use of handheld devices has had its benefits, of course. A cell phone can replace a startling amount of objects including a camera, GPS, compass, voice recorder, radio, books, newspapers, remote controls, and dictionaries (Mims). However, there have been adverse consequences of the use of smartphones. These adverse consequences have manifested themselves in numerous ways. The most notable signs are the physical ones, such as “smartphone pinky” and “text neck” (although a direct link between these issues and smartphone use is debated) (CCEP)(Ossola). Nevertheless, the effects transcend beyond the physical; they also encompass mental and social health. It has been found that prolonged consumption of digital media has caused deficits in the social skills of children (“Technology and Deficits in Social Skills.”). Additionally, a trend of social isolation has been related to the rise of the use of the internet and mobile phone (Hobson). Therefore, the use of technology is important to me because I have personally felt the effects of this “isolation”, specifically when I need to ask friends and peers to look at me instead of their phones when I speak (a crucial part of communication). The question is to what extent do demographics play a role in the use of handheld devices? My first