As the average time spent on the internet rises to around six hours a day, various forms of technology addiction are spreading among young people.
In Italy, at least 700,000 adolescents are addicted to the web, social media, and video games. What can families and Catholic communities do?
Digital addiction among young people: a reflection in light of the Catholic faith
In the modern era, digital devices, particularly smartphones, have become ubiquitous tools in our daily lives. Their convenience and usefulness are undeniable, but, like any tool, excessive use can lead to unintended consequences. There is growing concern, in fact, about “digital addiction,” especially among young people. The harm it causes ranges from physical effects (nearsightedness, obesity, and musculoskeletal disorders, to name a few) to psychological effects. This is an extremely alarming situation that is destined to worsen. In light of the Catholic faith, how should we address and understand this phenomenon?
The gift of creation and responsible use
The Catholic Church teaches that every gift of creation, including technological progress, comes from God and, as such, has the potential to be used for good. However, like any gift, it also has the potential to be abused.
The challenge lies in discerning how to use these tools responsibly and in harmony with our vocation as children of God. The Church has always emphasized the positive aspects to be harnessed and the risks to be avoided. What is offered by digital communication technologies, including for evangelization, is an addition and an expansion, an enhancement, but not a replacement for authentic relationships that require face-to-face interaction. The multiplication of relationships made possible is certainly a positive aspect to be harnessed; the risks include the possibility of losing presence.
Recognizing the true community
As we have already said, although mobile phones allow us to connect instantly with people all over the world, dependence on these devices can compromise our direct relationships. Jesus called his disciples to live in community, emphasizing the importance of authentic relationships. By reducing the time spent on screens, we can rediscover the value and beauty of direct human interactions.
Time for silence and prayer
Constant connectivity can hinder moments of reflection and prayer. Catholic tradition has always invited us to devote time to silence, allowing God to speak to us deep within our hearts. By periodically turning away from the temptation to check our devices incessantly, we can rediscover those sacred moments of connection with the Divine.
Educating for moderation and discernment
It is essential to educate young people about moderation in the use of technology. Families and Catholic communities have a fundamental role to play in this. In addition to setting practical limits, it is important to guide young people to understand the true nature and purpose of technology in their lives, helping them discern when and how to use it effectively and in a healthy way.
There are many examples of the positive use of technology, especially social media, to convey messages of light and faith. All this must be made clear and explained to young people; it must not replace in-person experiences.
Digital addiction is a real challenge in the contemporary world, but, in the horizon of faith, we can navigate these turbulent waters. Our calling is to use the gifts of technology wisely, always keeping our authentic relationships and our relationship with God at the center.
Do you also think that responsible use of technology can help with evangelization, especially among young people? Do you have experiences to share on this subject? We invite you to write about them in the comments below.
