Technology and Human Connection, A Reflection

The internet impacts relationships by forming them, sustaining them, and sometimes replacing them. By “replacing” them I mean that the internet has become a tool used to substitute real-world interactions with digital ones, which has changed the nature of friendships/relationships. During times when this is necessary, such as COVID-19, it’s such a gift. However, when those habits carry on past necessity, negative impacts can arise. Becoming too comfortable connecting online could potentially discourage people, particularly young people, from seeking human connection in the physical world. According to a 2021 Pew Research Review on Americans’ attitudes towards technology and human connection amidst and after COVID-19, people ages 18–29 were more likely to say digital contact was just as good as in-person in comparison to other age groups. Overall though, the survey communicates that technology allowed Americans to sustain, and even strengthen in some cases, their personal relationships. I see this as an overwhelmingly positive thing, despite the drawbacks of relying a little too much on digital connection. <a href="https://medium.com/@schu4443/technology-and-human-connection-a-reflection-3e0de70d6a56">Read More</a>