To notice it, you just need to look from your smartphone in the transport. the French have a hard time living without screens. Online shopping, video games, video calls, etc… Technology is gaining ground day by day. Even if it invades personal life.
Because of their online activities, 40% of French people say they feel negative effects on their personal lives, according to a GAE Conseil and Odoxa survey conducted in 2010 on a sample of French people. The first of these is lack of sleep for almost a third of respondents, as well as physical disabilities. Added to this is the decline in sports practice, motivation, loss of family and social relationships, etc.
A quarter of people working at a professional level say that their work is affected by screens. This can lead to decreased concentration, efficiency and motivation.
A paradoxical situation
Despite these findings, the dangers of screens are diminishing. Only one in seven is aware of presenting a “practice at risk of cyber addiction”. In other words, a loss of control over time spent online. However, more than a quarter (28%) of French people are actually concerned. “The survey figures show an alarming situation in terms of screen addiction, of which the French are very little aware.”says Alexis Pechard, addict and president of GAE Conseil.
Some profiles are more at risk than others, especially young people. Almost half of 18-35 year olds are highly exposed to the dangers of cyber addiction. “More than every third employee is also concerned. Specifically, executives (44%) who are more likely to be unable to turn off their smartphone and networks.”says the study.
Risky practices take many forms. Gluttonous viewing is headed by the podium. about 8 million French people watch soap operas non-stop. This is closely followed by phone use, losing track of time (7 million) and compulsive online shopping (3.1 million).
However, it is difficult for an addict to recommend abstinence and go without a phone. “Screens have a special status. Their use is encouraged and socially accepted, unlike, for example, alcohol., analyzes the president of GAE conseil, who recommends using self-tests on the Internet. Or organizing awareness seminars in companies.
Source: Le Figaro
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.