(Center Square) – When someone can watch only the television they like, listen to only the music they like and talk about political issues only they agree with, a new study indicates that There’s less reason for someone to do anything else. .
The Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty has released a new study that examines the dangers of social media bubbles and what it calls “fake relationships.”
“The rise of technology in the 20th century, particularly television, has significantly changed the way we spend time and interact with others due to the individualization and privatization of entertainment,” the report’s authors write. .
“The average time spent watching TV peaked at nine hours per day in 2009. By 2022, the average person spent 7.5 hours per day using their phone and watching TV.”
The report by Miranda Spindt and Will Flanders also states that the rise of social media has led to a decline in real-life relationships and interactions.
“It doesn’t take much thought to realize the extent to which pseudo-parasocial relationships have been reinforced by the Internet and social media. It’s easy to think you know someone well when they post about their vacations, relationship and career status, and personal interests,” the report adds.
WILL’s report indicates that there are other relationship problems on social media as well.
“These fake relationships with celebrities or online figures do not replace the importance of real relationships, but they do give us the impression that seeking real relationships is not as necessary,” the authors write.
The report highlights a sudden increase in the number of young people reporting depression or anxiety because of social media.
“Depressive symptoms among adolescents have increased from around 30% in 2010 to almost 50% in 2023, as the use of smartphones and social media has grown. The instant validation received through likes and other interactions creates an addiction that can be harmful if we do not receive it constantly,” the report notes.
The other danger highlighted by the report is the political divide in the United States, which has only widened since the explosion of social media.
“Social media contributes to political polarization because it encourages more polarized online behavior. The most controversial opinions get the most interaction, and the algorithms will show the most interactive content to more people. The anonymity of the Internet also encourages users to say things they might never say in real life. This makes controversial content appear more relevant than it is and harms our image of ideological others,” the report said.
The report ends with a general warning that people must keep up with the march of technology by ensuring they “understand and manage the consequences of these technological changes.”
New York Post
