this post was submitted on 15 Feb 2024
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AI: Over the past few decades, social interactions have declined significantly in the United States, leading to increased loneliness and anxiety among young people. This can be explained by the increase in the use of electronic devices and the decrease in traditional social activities. An increase in loneliness among young people has also been correlated with an increase in teenage depression and suicidal ideation. Researchers say good relationships are the key to happiness and health, and we should be willing to take care of our relationships as much as we take care of our health.
I'm paywalled out of the article, but it seems like more electronics and less traditional social activities is just restating the problem. Too much 'what', not enough 'why'.
It feels to me that the social isolation epidemic started well before cell phones and personal electronic devices, and that it would have more to do with larger systemic problems - things like average hours worked, pay, source of personal identity, image of success, feeling that a good life is achievable, finding activities with good value for the cost, and feeling like other people enjoy being around you.
This world we're inhabiting feels less and less "human" and I don't think phones caused that...
The article says it began in the 1970s, so I think you’re on to something. Also, the 70s was the decade where people started doing worse rather than better. Economic prospects declined, unions declined (or maybe I’m placing that a decade too early), OPEC happened. Everyone from then on was getting fucked slightly harder and now the system is beginning to collapse completely.
Ah, of course. It was those damned iPhones
My friends and I incorporated playing video games together after we went bowling for my homie's birthday last week. I think people playing more games is probably a symptom of a larger issue. If you want to call introverted people having more to occupy themselves at home an "issue."