TECHNOLOGICAL TRENDS AND THEIR CONSEQUENCES ON CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS

Abstract

Today in the modern world, the importance and usefulness of technology in our daily lives cannot be denied due to its countless benefits. With its increased usage, technology has made a profound impact on human life. This impact is not always positive and has caused nuisance in various aspects to humanity especially children. Research shows that these adverse effects are not limited to mental and physical health of young ones, but have also been the reason behind their behavioral issues. These harmful consequences can be managed somehow if we can figure out how various technologies influence children. Hence, this qualitative research was intended to determine the technological trends among young children of 1 to 9 years and adolescents aging 10 to 19 years in Pakistan and measure their consequences. This study was also aimed to provide design interventions to engineers for future devices in order to reduce these technological hazards. To meet this objective, data was collected through purposive sampling by means of semistructured interviews. Data analysis was done using NVivo software to assess the influence of different technologies as well as digital content on children from behavioral perspective. Both individual and social behaviors were examined for both age groups. Findings indicated that electronic devices particularly televisions, laptops and mobile phones have proved to be beneficial for children by elevating their knowledge, learning and creativity. However, maximum harmful effects such as aggression, addiction and stubbornness are also associated with these devices. In the same way, digital content like learning-based and entertainment videos and games have a positive contribution as they make children more informed and confident. Whereas, they are also a source of adverse effects e.g. disturbed sleep, poor eating habits, weak family bonding and reduced physical activities. Both age groups of children are facing unfavorable outcomes of technology with young children reflecting negative behavior mainly through aggression and irritability while adolescents are becoming stubborn and moody. Restricted content access, strict parental control, introducing child profiles with limited content and provision of electronic devices for learning only are some of the recommended measures which can lessen these technology jeopardies.