The Importance of Human Connection and How Technology Interferes
All children, from their early years of life, make connections and associations by analyzing and observing the faces of those around them. By observing faces, they are able to remember details and experiences which stimulate the temporal lobe, the part of the brain that processes and associates meaning to the information received by the senses. Thus, from the start, we form strong interpersonal relationships and as we get older, we begin to branch out of our immediate family in order to go out into the world and create a "family" of our own.
However, in our generation, technology interferes with our ability to connect and form these families. Many would argue that technology increases
our social contact through modes of texting and social media. Technology grants us access to a multitude of information from all around the world, but your cellphone is not a person that speaks and interacts with you. And no, Siri does not count! I hate to break it to you, but she isn't a real person!
As a result, technology neglects to foster face to face encounters that express our ability to process, react and create emotional bonds from interpersonal relationship. Sociologist Christine Carter claims "people with multiple [true] friendships are less likely to experience sadness, loneliness, low self-esteem and problems associated with eating and sleeping".
I recently spoke with two Norwell High School students, Jade Maljojoki and Hope Antonellis, and I asked them whether or not they believed interpersonal relationships were important and why? I also asked them if they believe technology interferes with human connection and personal happiness? Jade commented that by connecting with individuals on an intimate and human level, we learn exactly what it means to be human. We learn more about one another and about ourselves through observation and communication. Technology expands the realm of communication, but leaves out the key ingredient: connection. Hope also mentioned that technology makes us overlook one another and strive for perfection. There is this belief that “what people post [online] is who they are.” Although technology is an incredible tool and leisurely activity, it has become an obsession and support line for so many people. It interferes and interrupts with human connections. For example, one can be texting with a friend and say something that is misinterpreted by the receiving party when the sender meant no insult; this can hurt people’s feelings, start arguments and even damage relationships. There is also the issue of comparing oneself to the people they see online. We see perfection online and begin to compare ourselves to others which leads to insecurity and shame. Technology has the ability to open up so many opportunities, but it is also tremendously disruptive to one’s own peace of mind and sense of self-worth.
Therefore, we must attempt to limit our exposure to technology, go out in nature and reconnect with one another. Try attempting conversation without looking at your phone once.
