(00338)What can we do about Smartphone-addiction - or the dream of a wireless - free digital detox Island?

摘要

Since the introduction of wireless technology, digital devices penetrated all strata of the society. Even children use mobile phones regularly and excessively long. Excessive use may be associated with behavioral changes and symptoms of addiction. We analyzed the available literature and define the fields to respond to the association of "screen time" and altered social behavior. There is academic discussion whether the problematic use of smartphones really fulfils all criteria for the diagnosis "Addiction". Considering addiction as a disorder with severe effects on physical and psychological health, it is clear, that the observed behavior has a similar presentation as addiction in terms of excessive use, impulsive control problems and negative consequences. In its socio-cultural context there is a need for research on the underlying neurobiology and mechanisms. We propose the installation of holiday camps equipped for research activities to study behavioral therapies and at the same time offer immediate help for families or individuals that suffer from modern technology pathologic use. An ideal setting could be a region that abstains from wireless modern technology networks and provides facilities to consume addictive technology under controlled conditions. Currently we are looking for a Greek island that can be dedicated to the project.