Technology has a significant impact on the world in which today's youngsters are growing up. Technology permeates young people's life in all forms, from cellphones to streaming services. Despite the numerous advantages that technology has provided, there are worries about how it may affect young people. With an emphasis on social media, OTT services, and outdoor activities, this article will examine how technology has an impact on young people.

Youth and OTT

The popularity of over-the-top (OTT) services has grown among young people. Bypassing conventional cable or satellite providers, these services, which include Netflix, Hotstar, and Amazon Prime Video, let users watch material directly over the internet. While OTT services have a number of advantages, like price and convenience, they have also sparked worries about how they may affect young people.

Studies have shown that excessive screen time can have negative effects on youth. A 2020 study published in JAMA Pediatrics found that higher levels of screen time were associated with lower levels of cognitive development in preschool-aged children. Another study, published in the journal Lancet Child & Adolescent Health in 2019, found that excessive screen time was associated with poorer mental health outcomes in adolescents.

On the positive side, OTT services offer a wide variety of educational and informative content that can benefit young people. For example, documentary films and nature shows can help young people develop an appreciation for the natural world and a desire to protect it.

Youth and Social Media

Social media has become a ubiquitous part of youth culture. Platforms like Instagram, Snapchat, and TikTok have millions of active users, many of whom are young people. While social media can offer many benefits, such as connecting with friends and sharing ideas, it also has some negative effects.

Social media platforms can have negative effects on youth, including cyberbullying, addiction, negative body image, sleep disturbances, privacy concerns, and FOMO. According to a study by the Cyberbullying Research Center, over 34% of students have experienced cyberbullying, social media use can lead to addiction-like symptoms  . A study published in the Journal of Behavioral Addictions found that social media use was associated with addiction-like symptoms in young people.

FOMO (Fear of Missing Out): Social media platforms can create a sense of pressure to be constantly connected and up-to-date, leading to FOMO among young people. A study published in the Journal of Adolescence found that social media use was associated with increased FOMO among young people.

While there are numerous advantages to social media, it's crucial for young people to be aware of the risks and utilize these tools responsibly. It is crucial that educators and parents are aware of these challenges and seek to encourage young people to use social media responsibly.

Youth and outdoor activities

Low physical activity among youth is a growing concern in India, with an increase in sedentary behaviors such as screen time and a decline in active lifestyles. According to a study published in the Indian Journal of Pediatrics, only 25% of Indian school children aged 7-17 years met the recommended levels of physical activity. Another study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health found that only 15% of Indian college students met the recommended levels of physical activity. The lack of physical activity has been linked to numerous negative health outcomes, including obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Encouraging physical activity and outdoor play is crucial for promoting the health and well-being of Indian youth.

In conclusion, technology has a significant influence on young people's lives, both positively and negatively. While there are many advantages to technology, such as improved communication and information access, there are also drawbacks, such as addiction, cyberbullying, and a loss in physical activity. Young people must use technology properly and moderately, and parents and educators are crucial in encouraging young people to utilize technology in healthy ways.

About the author: Siddharth Singh Chauhan is a public policy professional dedicated to improving lives in the social sector. He's a CM Fellow with AIGGPA, driving policy initiatives and promoting social justice with skills in research, advocacy, and community engagement.