Teenagers and New Technology

Did you know that everyday, an average teenager spends up to 8 hours on electronic devices,which is up to more than 56 hours in one week? Over 75% of teenagers own a cell phone and even more have daily access to computers. With such a widespread presence of technology for teens, technology clearly has an effect on teens. The effects of technology on teenagers seems to be positive or negative depending on how teens choose to use it.

To begin with, technology can have a positive effect on teens. Some teens use technology to go online, listen to music, play games,and pursue interests. For example, a 17 year old teenager said that technology has allowed him to “pursue in his depth his interests in filmmaking”. (80) Another teen stated, “ video games give me a shot of energy” and “playing just makes me happy”. (77) This reveals that teens use technology to do things they enjoy and to learn more about things that interest them. Therefore, technology can have a positive affect on teenagers if they choose to use it in a way that benefits them.

In contrast, technology can also