Jean Twenge

Definition

Jean Twenge is an American psychologist and author known for her research on generational differences and the impact of technology on mental health. She has conducted extensive studies that highlight how digital interactions, particularly through smartphones and social media, can contribute to technology addiction and affect the overall wellbeing of younger generations.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Jean Twenge's research has shown that increased smartphone usage is correlated with rising rates of anxiety and depression among adolescents.
2. She argues that the prevalence of social media may lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation in young people, despite being more 'connected' than ever.
3. Twenge's book 'iGen' discusses how the digital landscape shapes the behaviors, attitudes, and mental health of today's youth.
4. Her studies indicate that spending more time on digital devices is linked to decreased face-to-face interactions, impacting social skills development.
5. Twenge emphasizes the need for promoting healthy technology habits to improve the overall wellbeing of younger generations.

Review Questions

• How does Jean Twenge's research connect technology use with mental health issues in younger generations?
  • Jean Twenge's research illustrates a direct connection between increased technology use, particularly smartphones and social media, and rising mental health issues like anxiety and depression among younger people. She found that as digital interactions increase, face-to-face communication decreases, which can lead to feelings of loneliness. This suggests that while technology offers connectivity, it may also harm emotional health if not used mindfully.
• In what ways does Twenge suggest addressing technology addiction among youth?
  • Twenge advocates for promoting healthier technology habits, such as setting limits on screen time and encouraging more face-to-face interactions. She believes that parents and educators should be proactive in teaching young people how to balance their digital lives with real-world experiences. By creating structured opportunities for socializing offline, it can help mitigate the negative impacts of excessive device use.
• Evaluate the implications of Twenge's findings on digital wellbeing for future research and policy-making regarding youth and technology.
  • The implications of Jean Twenge's findings on digital wellbeing highlight an urgent need for further research into how technology affects youth mental health. Policymakers may need to consider regulations that promote digital literacy programs in schools, focusing on healthy technology use. Additionally, these findings could prompt mental health professionals to develop targeted interventions for addressing issues stemming from excessive device use, ensuring that youth can thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Related terms

Generation Z: The demographic cohort born from the mid-1990s to the early 2010s, often characterized by their familiarity with digital technology and social media from a young age.

Smartphone Addiction: A behavioral addiction involving excessive use of smartphones, leading to negative consequences in personal, social, or occupational functioning.

Digital Wellbeing: A concept that refers to the positive impact of digital technology on individuals' health and quality of life, emphasizing a balanced approach to technology use.