Tech-Induced Behavioral Problem

In a modern world where gadgets and the internet are within almost everyone's reach, it is not surprising that an illness has surfaced—Screen Dependency Disorder (SDD)—a behavioral problem where one cannot control excessive screen use despite being aware of the negative consequences, compromising personal relationships, daily responsibilities, and overall well-being. While it isn't formally indexed as a medical diagnosis, it is undeniable that many already suffer from it—a few in my circle, unfortunately.

There was that kid throwing tantrums in a public assembly when his Dad's phone shut off while he was watching videos. That neighbor's young boy locking himself in his bedroom all day, missing meals and neglecting his overall health because he was engrossed in his games. That teenage niece showing intense anger, irritability, and restlessness when forced to disconnect. That auntie who refuses to leave the couch because she is obsessed with watching a daytime show on the smart TV. Yep, even adults are not immune. Many spend their days streaming or endlessly scrolling through their feeds.

People exchanging sleep for more screen time; young children giggling, laughing, and even cursing while their eyes are glued to a tablet or smartphone. Perhaps the funniest is the zombie commuter—someone missing his bus (or train) stop because his attention was on the glowing rectangle in his hand. Just imagining one's reaction to suddenly finding himself somewhere other than where he intended to be makes me LOL. A modern-day comedy, haha!

What a strange time we live in. The tools meant to connect us or make life easier are completely disconnecting and isolating us from the real physical world and the people beside us. Rectangular gadgets, or whatever screen shapes within arm's reach, are stealing our attention from those who matter most, making us willing prisoners in cells of our own making. Sigh...

I hope we wake up soon before it gets too late.

^{This post was inspired by Inti's post the other day.😉}