Online Usage Changing Millennial Brains?
Brett April 13th, 2009
We always hear that Millennials are different, and that their constant online interaction is changing the very way they interact. However, I do not know if I believe all of the hype. While older generations may not understand Gen Y’s methods, they should realize that these new communication tools enable people to connect faster and more efficiently than ever before. No longer do countless teenagers and young adults have to miss each other while trying to catch a movie a la an episode of Seinfeld, and can instead always find their friends on Loopt. Also, even though it seems that Millennials are always texting on their phones, a recent OTX study shows that hanging out with friends, going out with a girlfriend/boyfriend, and listening to music are a Millennial’s top activities. Going online, using social media applications, and texting do not even appear on this list, which means the stereotype of Gen Y losing themselves to the online morass must be off.
Many psychologists though are sounding the alarm regarding how internet use is changing Millennial brains. In a recent CBS News piece, Social Misfits, Dr. Gary Small demonstrates how Millennial brains operate while using the internet much differently than older generations. Another recent post on the blog Grown Up Digital by Anthony Williams highlighted the fact that some psychologists believe early childhood interaction with the internet through social networking, IM, etc. has had a direct correlation to increased prescriptions for attention deficit disorder, a desire for instant gratification, and an erosion of an individual’s sense of identity among Gen Y’s.
Even though I do not entirely believe the idea that Millennials only want to operate in a virtual world, I think there can be some truth to what the experts are saying. Unfortunately, there is not enough research currently being done to definitively see what is actually going on in the minds of the youngest generation, but that will hopefully change soon.
Do you think the internet is changing Gen Y’s brains??
My answer to your question: probably. But I don’t think it’s serious. It does, however, frustrate me on occasion to learn that I know more about the internet technology than some of my Gen-Y colleagues. I’m certain that I’m still a novice, so what’s up with some of your generation? It’s not supposed to be that way. Mature 74 year olds like me are supposed to be able to get all the help technologically that we need from you guys. I want to be able to ask for help and get it from any Gen-Yer. Some of you need to get your s- – t together for us oldsters.
Oh well, my 13 year old grandson usually rescues me.
Dan