The internet has become an indispensable part of our lives. Many of us cannot imagine a day without being online. We use it to stay in touch with the world, to entertain ourselves, to shop, and to learn. The internet has revolutionized the way we communicate and interact. But while there are a lot of benefits of using the internet, it can have a considerable impact on society as a whole and on our lives, some of which are far from appealing.
Potential Health Consequences
It is no secret that long hours spent in front of a computer or device are not good for physical wellbeing. Computer vision syndrome, for instance, can cause headaches, eye discomfort, and even long-term vision problems. Excessive exposure to blue-light from screens is also associated with a disruption of the circadian rhythm which can cause insomnia and other sleep disorders.
On top of the physical effects, frequent internet usage has been linked to increased anxiety and depression. A 2017 study that surveyed almost 1,500 young adults concluded that people who spend more than three hours a day engaging in activities such as browsing the Internet, chatting, playing computer games and surfing social media networks are more prone to develop mental health issues.
Inappropriate Content
The internet can be an open door to inappropriate and even dangerous content. Pornography, violence, and hate speech are just a few examples of content that is freely available to anyone who connects to the web. Unprotected children and teenagers, who spend countless hours browsing the web, can – quite unfortunately – be exposed to disturbing images or materials that can have a negative impact on their mental health. It is important for parents to keep an eye on what their children are consuming online in order to keep them safe from harmful content.
Cyber Crimes
Cyber crimes include cyberbullying, harassment, identity theft, stalking and hacking, to name just a few. As a matter of fact, anyone with decent internet and technical skills can commit criminal acts online. In some cases, it is relatively easy for perpetrators to hide behind a pseudonym and a mask of anonymity, making it hard for law enforcement to track them down.
Social Isolation
The internet has opened up a world of opportunities in terms of connecting with other people, but ironically enough it can also lead to social isolation. When people spend hours online, they often disregard other commitments and log off feeling completely disconnected from the physical world. People start to rely on the virtual community over their own real-life relationships, and that can cause psychological issues.
Negative Impact on Education
The rise of the internet has created an abundance of information, but it can also lead to distraction and decreased performance in the learning process. Students who spend too much time browsing the internet risk developing poor study habits and procrastinating, ultimately leading to poorer academic results.
Affecting our Attention Span
According to multiple studies, excessive Internet use can also impair our ability to concentrate and retain information efficiently and rapidly. People who are addicted to Internet-based activities tend to have short attention spans and struggle when they have to stay focused on a subject or task for an extended period of time.
The internet has changed the way we communicate and interact with each other in a remarkable way. But at the same time, it has its own set of drawbacks that cannot be overlooked. Long hours spent in front of a computer, cybercrimes, inappropriate content, social isolation, negative impacts on education, and even our own attention span can be affected by the constant use of the internet. It is important to be aware of the potential risks that come with excessive internet use in order to avoid potential problems and take the necessary protective measures.
