Technology Use Scenario

Max is always on the computer. except when he is at school, Max is on his 
social networking sites, video sites, or just surfing websites. He communicates with many people using his social networking sites or texting but rarely leaves the house. His mother is becoming concerned that he is not seeing his friends or going out. What should Max’s mother do?



Although Max isn’t using the technology inappropriately, some would believe he has been using it too much… But what is too much? Should there be a limit to a child’s online participation?

Considering Max is a young person growing up in the Digital Age, he is a digital native.  The youth generation of the Digital Age is adapted to a lifestyle filled with modern technology and advancements.  They are accustomed to this and find hanging out on the computer for countless hours to be normal. 

There is nothing wrong with the way Max is using technology as he primarily is just using social media, watching videos, and surfing the web. What is of concern in this particular situation is the amount of time spent using technology.  The excessive amount of time that Max plays on the computer illustrates how his real social life outside of the computer could be threatened.

Although he may be communicating with several people in the virtual world, he does not get to develop the interpersonal and interactive skills.  These skills are very important for people to develop at a younger age so that they can properly function in society.  Yes, I understand Max is popular online but does this justify him loosing connection to the real world? 

Max’s extreme use of the computer illustrates how he may be suffering from a computer or internet addiction.  Internet addiction is a global epidemic as the Digital Age continues to advance itself.  Internet addiction can result in physical and psychological symptoms which are very harmful to any human being. 

Max’s mother has every right to be concerned for her child’s well-being and social life.  Many families are experiencing the exact same thing across the nation as technology is more accessible than ever before.  Most of the younger generation know how to use all the digital technologies out there, but does mean we should make it fully accessible to our youth? 

Max’s mother needs to confront Max and confirm that his interpersonal social life is not being affected by his computer habits… or some would say obsession.  Then a limit should be put in place. Families and mothers like Max’s need to monitor their children’s use of technology and place a limit on how many hours they can spend on a computer.  This notion of limit and control is a growing topic in the world as so many families are affected by computer addiction.

I found a great resource for anyone who seeks help to overcome computer or internet addiction.

Retrieved from: http://www.helpguide.org/mental/internet_cybersex_addiction.htm