Open AccessBrain health consequences of digital technology use
Author(s) -
Gary W. Small,
Joo-Yeon Lee,
Aaron Kaufman,
Jason Jalil,
Prabha Siddarth,
Himaja Gaddipati,
Teena D. Moody,
Susan Y. Bookheimer
Publication year - 2020
Publication title -
dialogues in clinical neuroscience
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.11
H-Index - 87
eISSN - 1958-5969
pISSN - 1294-8322
DOI - 10.31887/dcns.2020.22.2/gsmall
Subject(s) - neuroscience , digital health , psychology , health care , political science , law
Emerging scientific evidence indicates that frequent digital technology use has a significant impact-both negative and positive-on brain function and behavior. Potential harmful effects of extensive screen time and technology use include heightened attention-deficit symptoms, impaired emotional and social intelligence, technology addiction, social isolation, impaired brain development, and disrupted sleep. However, various apps, videogames, and other online tools may benefit brain health. Functional imaging scans show that internet-naive older adults who learn to search online show significant increases in brain neural activity during simulated internet searches. Certain computer programs and videogames may improve memory, multitasking skills, fluid intelligence, and other cognitive abilities. Some apps and digital tools offer mental health interventions providing self-management, monitoring, skills training, and other interventions that may improve mood and behavior. Additional research on the positive and negative brain health effects of technology is needed to elucidate mechanisms and underlying causal relationships.
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