Digital dementia – The challenge of the internet generation

Abstract

Digital dementia is a phenomenon of the Internet generation (Generation Z and Generation Alpha), who are growing up with intensive exposure to digital media, smartphones, tablets, and social networks. Children and adolescents are exposed to digital devices from the earliest age, using them daily during learning, play, meals, as well as immediately before sleep. Living in a digital environment, they prefer visual content and rapid information exchange.

Although technology offers numerous advantages, excessive use of digital devices may lead to a decline in cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and executive functions. Due to the overuse of digital devices as an “external memory,” the brain no longer needs to retain information. This reduces the mental load on the brain, leading to cognitive offloading and the development of mental atrophy.

The neurological effects of digital dementia include a reduction in gray matter in key brain areas such as the prefrontal cortex and hippocampus, which are important for emotional and cognitive regulation. Changes are also observed in the anterior cingulate cortex (impulse control), orbitofrontal cortex (reward processing and addiction), striatum (habit formation), and parahippocampal regions (memory and spatial orientation). These regions are crucial for executive functions, impulse regulation, the reward system, habit formation, and memory processes. Executive brain functions represent high-level cognitive processes that include planning, maintaining focus, and decision-making. The three main components of executive functions are inhibitory control, working memory, and cognitive flexibility.

High screen exposure is associated with poorer working memory function and weakened functional connectivity of neural networks, which may encourage the development of inefficient cognitive strategies. There are also concerns about the long-term risk of Alzheimer’s disease associated with excessive use of digital devices at an early age.

Although some countries have introduced bans on mobile phone use in schools, studies show that these measures have not significantly improved academic performance, mental health, or reduced cyberbullying. Therefore, the key role of physicians is to recognize excessive use of digital devices and educate patients about healthy habits.

In conclusion, measures for digital detoxification are needed, which implies conscious limitation and structuring the time spent on digital media, as well as the development of strategies that will help reduce the negative effects of technology on the brain and mental health of children and adolescents.