Social impacts of new technology on well-being

New technologies, such as smartphones and other devices, can affect people's social lives and mental health in various ways. Companies often release these technologies frequently and use advertising to encourage purchases, which can create pressure to buy the latest versions.

Pressures from advertising and peers

• Advertising influence - Companies promote new devices through advertisements that may pressure individuals into upgrading, even if their current device works well.
• Peer pressure - Children and young people may feel compelled to own the newest gadgets to avoid bullying or exclusion from their peers; this can also pressure parents to buy these items.

Work intrusion into personal life

Smartphones enable constant connectivity, which allows work to extend beyond office hours. Employees might be expected to carry devices at all times for immediate contact, leading to stress as they struggle to disconnect from work responsibilities.

Neglect of face-to-face social interaction

With social lives increasingly moving online via mobile devices and the internet, people may spend less time on in-person conversations. This can weaken real-world relationships, as individuals become more absorbed in digital interactions, reducing opportunities for direct social engagement.

Harmful content and behaviour on social media

Social media platforms can expose users to inappropriate or damaging content, and they facilitate negative behaviours that exploit online anonymity. Anonymity refers to the ability to hide one's real identity online, which can encourage actions people might avoid in face-to-face situations.

Access to inappropriate material

The internet makes it simpler for children to encounter unsuitable content, such as pornography, information about drugs, or gambling sites. To mitigate this, parents and schools can implement parental-control software, which is a type of program designed to block access to specific websites or content based on age-appropriate settings.

Cyberbullying and its effects

Cyberbullying involves using social media to intentionally harm someone, such as through intimidation, insults, humiliation, or defamation (damaging someone's reputation). This can cause severe emotional distress, and in extreme cases, it has led individuals to suicide. The anonymity of online platforms often emboldens bullies, as they feel less accountable than in direct interactions.

Trolling on online platforms

Trolling occurs when someone deliberately provokes arguments or frustration online for amusement or attention, such as making inflammatory comments in discussions without genuine intent to contribute. Like cyberbullying, trolling thrives on internet anonymity, allowing behaviour that might not occur in person.

Health problems caused by excessive technology use

Prolonged use of computers and devices can lead to physical health issues, but these can often be prevented with simple adjustments.

How technology shapes culture

Computers and the internet have profoundly influenced modern culture, enabling new forms of expression and interaction that were previously unimaginable. This has transformed how people create, share, and consume content.

Popular cultural trends driven by technology

• Selfies - Photographs taken of oneself, popularised by smartphone cameras and social media platforms that make sharing easy; however, this trend may encourage attention-seeking or self-obsession.
• Viral content - Videos, images, or messages that spread rapidly online, reaching millions; organisations like companies, politicians, celebrities, and charities aim to create such content for promotion.
• User-generated publishing - Social media and blogs allow individuals to share writing, art, or other media, giving a platform to underrepresented groups that mainstream media might overlook.

How technology is changing business practices

Advancements in technology have revolutionised business models, introducing new ways to deliver services and generate revenue. However, these changes can create ethical concerns and disruptions for traditional industries.

Streaming services for music and television

Streaming platforms offer media access through subscription models, often at lower costs than traditional purchases. This benefits consumers with affordable options, but it raises issues for creators, such as musicians who argue that streaming companies underpay them for using their content.

The sharing economy

The sharing economy uses technology to enable people to monetise their existing assets.

Examples of sharing economy services:

• Services like Uber, which allow individuals to offer taxi rides using their personal cars.
• Platforms like Airbnb, which let people rent out rooms or properties to travellers via online bookings.

These services provide cheap alternatives but can divert customers from established businesses. They also introduce risks, such as inadequate safety regulations, potential insurance gaps for damage or theft, and uncertainty for both providers and users.

The digital divide and its causes

The digital divide refers to the gap between those who have access to technology and those who do not, leading to unequal opportunities in areas like education, employment, and social connections.

Causes of the digital divide within countries

• Cost barriers - Not everyone can afford devices like smartphones or tablets, which are often expensive.
• Network coverage issues - Urban areas typically have better internet and mobile coverage than rural regions, limiting access in remote locations.
• Lack of knowledge - Some individuals, particularly older people who did not grow up with technology, may not know how to use the internet or devices, excluding them from its benefits.

This divide disadvantages those without access, as the internet is essential for tasks like job applications, online banking, shopping, and staying connected.

The global digital divide

On an international scale, the global divide arises because wealthier countries generally have greater technology access than poorer ones. This widens inequality, as technology creates economic and social opportunities primarily for those in developed nations.

Efforts to address the digital divide

Projects aim to reduce these gaps, such as:

• Improving internet infrastructure in rural UK areas to enhance coverage.
• Donating computers to schools in developing countries to support education and build digital skills.

These initiatives help bridge the divide by increasing access and promoting digital literacy.