The computer and internet are sources that many people find themselves using every day to entertain or inform themselves. People entertain themselves using the computer and internet by accessing videos, music, movies, or books at the click of a button. People inform themselves using the computer and internet by looking for information on various topics to satisfy their curiosity instantly. Both sources are very helpful because it allows people to purchase products and find information whenever and wherever. However, these sources are not helpful due to the effects it may have on an individual’s social life and communication skills. Although the reasons I aforementioned explain why the computer and internet are helpful tools, recently, they have become sources of alienation and shallow thinking especially for those who consider themselves shy.
In today’s society, people spend hours on their computers, phones or tablets. They have become consumed with obtaining information on their electronic device instead of conversing with people around them. People who are shy tend to isolate themselves from social settings because they feel uncomfortable interacting with others or may have social anxiety. Therefore, the shy individual could use their phone as an escape mechanism, so they do not have to socialize with others. The electronic device provides a comfort zone for a person who does not normally thrive in a social setting. As a result, the individual withdraws from the crowd to avoid group conversations by being attentive to their device.
Some individuals who are shy may not always know what to say to initiate a conversation. I believe a person’s inability to start a conversation with another individual is a result of shallow thinking. It could also result from being nervous and fearful of rejection. Alienating oneself can cause an individual to have shallow thinking because that individual does not want to be exposed to new experiences, people, surroundings, or information on a daily basis. If an individual is exposed to the computer and the internet for more than six hours a day, it can have a great effect on their social and mental skills. Also, hours of exposure on the internet can be very unhealthy especially if the material the person is viewing is not educational or does not challenge the person mentally.
People may argue that the computer and internet are very helpful tools because they enhance learning. The internet helps people to expand their horizons by exposing them to new concepts and ideas. They also may argue that using the internet does not cause people to isolate themselves because the internet serves as a tool of communication. It allows people to contact their families, friends, and strangers from other parts of the world nationally or internationally through social media or video chats. Since the computer and internet enhances learning and motivates people to engage in conversations, it should not hinder their social or mental skills.
Overall, people who have social anxiety choose to isolate themselves by using the internet. It is easier for them to hide behind the computer because they do not have to interact with people in person which may make them uncomfortable. There is nothing wrong with being shy, but hiding behind the keyboard or electronic device can hinder one’s social skills. Choosing to surf the net instead of being active in the world can also lead to a lack of strong communication skills and social skills at school or in the workplace. I would encourage people to remove themselves from virtual reality and social media and plug themselves into the real world.
