The impact of the absence of the smartphone on the brain is surprising: it changes the celebratory activity significantly
In recent years, the smartphone They have become essential tools of our daily lives, both for communication and for work and free time. However, a recent study conducted by Mike M. Schmitgen of the University of Heidelberg and published in the magazine Computers in Human Behavior highlighted how The deprivation of this device for only three days can change the brain activity significantly.
The experiment involved 25 young adults Between 18 and 30 years old, to whom it was asked to limit the use of the smartphone to essential functions only, such as urgent calls. During the research, the participants were subjected to specific examsincluding functional magnetic resonance imaging, which allows to monitor brain activity in real time.
The results revealed significant changes in the brainin particular in the areas related to reward and dependence systems. The analyzes revealed that the absence of the smartphone triggers reactions similar to those observed in subjects who suddenly stop smoking or consuming alcohol.
The use of smartphones could create a form of dependence similar to that induced by alcohol and nicotine
The cerebral regions involved in the regulation of addictions have shown alterations already in the first hours of abstinence. After 72 hours, several images were shown to the volunteers, some of common objects such as flowers and boats, others that included smartphones. In the latter case, there was an activation of the brain areas linked to reward and desiresimilarly to what happens in substances dependence mechanisms.
This discovery suggests that the use of smartphones can create A form of dependence similar to that induced by alcohol and nicotine. The difficulty of separating from the phone, therefore, is not only a matter of habit or comfort, but has a very specific neurological basis.
The goal of the study is not to demonize technology, but rather sensitize on the importance of a conscious use of smartphones. Their constant presence in our life can influence our brain in ways that we often underestimate. Gradually reduce the time spent in front of the screen could be a useful strategy for rebalance the relationship with technology and encourage greater mental well -being.
