Preventing addiction to digital content

In recent years, smartphones, tablets and laptops have become so affordable that almost everyone has at least one of the three mentioned devices. These electronic devices and their digital screens offer a never-ending source of entertainment starting from movies and videos to funny articles and blog posts. Of course, there is nothing wrong with enjoying the fascinating contents available on the internet; but the problem begins when this act of enjoyment turns into an addiction or obsession. Already, several scientific studies have pointed to the potential relationship between internet addiction and certain cognitive function problems.

In the case of children and young adults, their everyday activities have a tremendous impact on their future habits and lifestyles. It may be harmful when the human mind is still developing, as it can lead to unhealthy lifestyles or habits. Japan, for example, has a law called the School Library Law, which requires schools, especially elementary schools, to have at least one well-designed, spacious library for students. The habit of reading books, comics and "mangas" is intentionally and carefully nurtured in Japanese children from a very early age. The students also have to study "shodo" or Japanese calligraphy, learn to play at least one musical instrument, take arts and handicrafts lessons and take care of a portion of the school garden. All of these activities are included in school curricula, and there is no way to opt out. Thus the elementary education system in Japan actively encourages the students to have a healthy and wholesome lifestyle. In Bangladesh, it may be difficult to modify the elementary education system drastically; therefore, parents and guardians must take the responsibility to instill good habits in their children and help them adopt a positive lifestyle.