“Changing Our Perspective: Rethinking Our Relationship with Technology”

Technology has become an integral aspect of our daily lives, with many individuals dedicating a substantial amount of time to utilising digital devices. It is not uncommon for people to question whether their screen time may be excessive and to express concerns about potential phone addiction. Nevertheless, Pete Etchells contends that labelling our technology use as an addiction is unproductive.

The term “addicted” has gained popularity in describing our attachment to our phones. However, is this an accurate representation of our behaviour? Etchells asserts that, for the majority of users, this is not the case. He argues that using the term “addiction” in a clinical context is an exaggeration, as there is insufficient evidence to support the notion that we are genuinely addicted to our screens.

Rather than branding ourselves as “addicted” to our phones, Etchells proposes that we alter our perspective and reconsider our relationship with technology. He highlights that it is natural to feel apprehensive when we recognise that we may be dedicating excessive time to our devices, but it is crucial to address this matter in a more constructive manner rather than attributing it solely to addiction.

It is imperative to acknowledge that our utilisation of technology is influenced by a variety of factors such as professional obligations, social connections, and entertainment. Instead of classifying our interactions with digital devices as an addiction, it would be more beneficial to comprehend the underlying reasons for our conduct and establish strategies to effectively regulate our screen time.

Etchells underscores that comprehending our association with technology necessitates a more comprehensive and nuanced viewpoint. Merely categorising our habits as an addiction oversimplifies the complex dynamics in play. By restructuring the discourse, we can approach this issue with greater openness and a willingness to embrace change.

In conclusion, it is evident that designating ourselves as “addicted” to our phones is not the most constructive approach to confronting our excessive use of technology. Instead, we should strive to gain a deeper understanding of our bond with digital devices and devise methods to manage our screen time in a healthy and balanced manner. By adapting our mindset and adopting a more constructive approach, we can cultivate a positive and sustainable interaction with technology.