Our Relationships, Poor Sleep, and a Severed Hand

It is not uncommon for many people to be at a constant arms-reach away from access to the internet in one form or another. Whether it be a computer, laptop, cellphone, and/or smart-watch, we are accustomed to the immediate gratification we receive from being able to search whatever we want whenever we want, to have directions to wherever we want to go, to play games or listen to music when we are bored. This immediate gratification we receive has vast and far reaching implications that extend well beyond its immediate scope. It has transformed the way we maintain relationships with others and the ability for us to inhibit our own actions.

When people spend more time online, they spend less time socializing with others or taking interest in hobbies. The internet, and other forms of digital communication, have altered the way we interact with others. Many studies show that the internet has led to increased social isolation. A large percent of research suggests that the way we use the internet is in fact altering the way we manage and build our relationships. Opposing research suggests that those active in social media are, “more likely to report higher-quality friendships and more friendship-forming behaviors.” Modern technology allows us to improve and maintain relationships. (PsychCentral)

Although the Internet may help build are relationships, the effects of being constantly connected to our friends has negative consequences. In the article linked below, Kylee Heston, a clinical psychologist states that more and more of her patients report having difficulty sleeping through the night because of their constant need to check messages and status updates on their devices. This overstimulates the brain and prevents people from getting a full night of restful sleep. Additionally, Americans spend an average of over 7 hours looking at a screen every day, according to research from a Mayo Clinic. Internet use is becoming so bad for some people that in China, an incident reported on February 2^nd, a teenager severed his hand to cure his internet addiction. Unquestionably an extreme case, the term coined as “internet addiction” is becoming an increasingly greater issue.

Heston article:

http://www.grandforksherald.com/accent/life-style/3678649-it-time-disconnect-your-internet-addiction

Chinese Teenager Article:

http://www.businessinsider.com/teenager-in-china-cut-hand-off-over-internet-addiction-2015-2

PsychCentral Article:

http://psychcentral.com/blog/archives/2009/05/13/the-internet-helps-teenagers-with-social-relationships/