Behavioural Bytes Archives
In a recent episode of The Huberman Lab podcast, Dr Jonathan Haidt, PhD, a renowned social psychologist, discussed the impact of technology on mental health, particularly the rise in anxiety, depression, and suicide among young people. The conversation highlighted how a childhood once dominated by play has now been replaced by screens—smartphones, social media, and video games—leading to challenges in psychological development, social skills, and well-being.
The issue isn’t just what’s happening, but why. As screen time rises, we must consider the neuroscience behind it. Smartphones, with their endless scrolls and notifications, tap directly into the brain’s dopamine pathways—the same systems regulating reward and pleasure. For young minds still developing critical functions like decision-making, impulse control, and emotional regulation, this becomes a potent tool for habit formation and, often, addiction. This is especially concerning in South Africa, where, according to the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), almost one in ten teenage deaths are due to suicide. The mental health risks linked to smartphone overuse, such as isolation, anxiety, and depression, cannot be ignored.
But here's where a behavioural lens becomes key. We can’t just blame technology; we must understand why young people are drawn to their screens. At a neurobiological level, smartphones offer immediate, low-effort rewards. These quick dopamine hits can hijack the brain’s reward systems, dampening motivation for more fulfilling activities like physical play, in-person interactions, or academic work.
In South Africa, where disparities are vast and internet access is widespread, smartphones often become a gateway to connection and entertainment, especially in under-resourced areas. This makes it even more crucial for educators, parents, and policymakers to build environments encouraging healthier, more balanced habits.
Restoring childhood independence and limiting smartphone use, as Dr Haidt suggests, isn’t just about cutting screen time—it’s about addressing the behavioural patterns driving the behaviour. In South Africa, this could mean promoting safer, accessible spaces for outdoor play and fostering community initiatives that focus on social connection beyond screens.
Ultimately, tackling the mental health crisis linked to smartphone use requires a multifaceted approach. By understanding the neuroscience behind screen addiction and addressing both cultural and behavioural influences, we can create healthier environments that prioritise well-being—both online and offline.
