Term for cognitive impairments caused by excessive use of digital media, which can manifest itself in concentration problems or declining memory performance.
The term digital dementia describes the theory that excessive use of digital technologies such as smartphones, computers and tablets can lead to an impairment of cognitive abilities.
By outsourcing knowledge and memory to digital devices, such as navigation systems or search engines, important brain functions such as memory, concentration and critical thinking are less supported. This is because the brain relies on regular mental challenges to maintain its performance.
This can impair the mental development of children and adolescents in particular, but can also lead to a loss of mental fitness in adults. However, critics point out that the term is scientifically controversial and not all studies confirm the thesis. They accuse science of taking a one-sidedly negative view without sufficiently appreciating the opportunities offered by digitalization. A more differentiated view would be desirable, especially for sectors such as smart buildings, where technological innovations offer many advantages.
However, digital dementia serves as a warning against uncritical use of digital media and emphasizes the importance of mental training and conscious media use to maintain mental performance.
Image: Shutterstock
Author: Anja Herberth
Chefredakteurin
