Adolescence is a critical developmental stage where individuals undergo significant changes in biology, cognition, and personality. The brain constantly develops from birth to late twenties, with various structures, wiring, communication between them, and chemical secretion necessary for functioning. According to Dr. Lior Ungar, an expert in neurosurgery and pain medicine, the brain changes in response to addiction can lead to an increased need for the same stimulus. This results in a greater secretion of chemical substances like dopamine, requiring more screen exposure and leading to addiction.
The researchers found that increased brain activity was evident in all brain regions of young people’s brains even when they were at rest. However, they also observed an overall decrease in communication between the parts of the brain involved in active thinking, memory, and decision-making. These changes may lead to addictive tendencies in adolescents and behavioral changes related to mental health, development, intellectual ability, and physical coordination.
Symptoms of these changes include struggling to maintain relationships and social activity, lying about screen time and experiencing irregular eating and disturbed sleep. Parents are advised to enforce reasonable time limits on their children’s daily internet use and seek psychological treatment or psychotherapy if necessary.
Excessive screen time can have negative effects on children’s brain abilities potentially impacting curiosity, creativity, understanding empathy organization and communication skills. It is essential for parents to monitor their children’s screen time carefully and encourage them to engage in other activities that promote healthy cognitive development.
In conclusion, adolescence is a crucial developmental stage where individuals undergo significant changes in biology
