Name   : Chiara Qonita
Class   : PBI 23 –A
Lecture  : Elfi,S.PD.I.,M.PD
Project  : Essay
Universitas UIN Mahmud Yunus Batusangkar
                The Impact of Gadget Use is Greater on Teenagers
   In the digital age, gadgets have become integral to daily life, especially among teenagers. While these devices offer numerous benefits, such as enhanced communication and access to information, their excessive use has raised concerns about their impact on adolescents' physical and mental health. This essay argues that the negative effects of gadget use on teenagers are more pronounced than the positive aspects, leading to physical ailments, cognitive impairments, and emotional disturbances.
   The first physical health consequences, The overuse of gadgets among teenagers can lead to various physical health issues. Research indicates that prolonged screen time is associated with problems such as eye strain, back pain, and obesity. For instance, (Saniyyah et al 2021) found that teenagers in Lamdom village used gadgets for 5-7 hours daily, resulting in symptoms like dry eyes and neck pain due to poor posture during usage (Saniyyah et al., 2021). Similarly, (Setyaningsih and Setyowatie 2023) reported that excessive gadget use contributes to sleep disturbances and physical discomforts such as headaches and fatigue (Setyaningsih & Setyowatie, 2023). These findings underscore the detrimental effects of gadgets on adolescents' physical well-being.
   Second cognitive development issues, Gadget use also adversely affects cognitive development in teenagers. The constant engagement with digital devices can hinder attention spans and learning capabilities. A study by (Lemola 2014) highlighted a correlation between late-night gadget use and poor sleep quality, which negatively impacts academic performance due to decreased focus during school hours (Lemola, 2014). Furthermore, excessive gadget use can lead to cognitive overload, making it difficult for adolescents to process information effectively (Florencia, 2020). This cognitive decline is concerning as it hampers educational achievement and overall intellectual growth.
   Third emotional and social implications, The emotional impact of gadget overuse is another critical concern. Adolescents frequently experience increased levels of stress, anxiety, and depression linked to their gadget usage patterns. According to (Thomas 2018), excessive cell phone use is associated with heightened anxiety and emotional instability among teenagers (Thomas, 2018). Additionally, the reliance on virtual interactions can lead to social withdrawal and a decline in face-to-face communication skills. Research indicates that teenagers who spend significant time on social media often report feelings of loneliness and isolation (Kogoya et al., 2023). This shift towards digital interactions detracts from meaningful relationships and can exacerbate mental health issues.
   In conclusion, while gadgets serve as valuable tools for communication and learning, their excessive use poses significant risks to teenagers' physical health, cognitive development, and emotional well-being. It is essential for parents, educators, and society to recognize these challenges and implement strategies to mitigate the negative impacts of gadget use. Promoting balanced usage through education about healthy screen time limits can help foster a healthier relationship between adolescents and technology.
