A paradigm shift is defined as a fundamental change in an individual’s or a society’s view of how things work in the world. One of the most obvious changes in our society is the improvement in technology, specifically the invention of the smartphone. In The Atlantic’s article, “Have Smartphones Destroyed a Generation?”, by Jean M. Twege, there are many noticeable, concerning, and negative changes happening to the younger generation, the “iGen”. These changes are backed up by data of generational differences. The article credits these concerning changes to the improvement in technology. Children who grow up with such advanced technology and social media lead different lives of the generations before. The way the iGen socially interacts with others is the main effect. The effects of the advancement of technology is the perfect example of a paradigm shift.

When there were no smartphones, let alone computers in general, the world was much different, according to the article, and from what I have heard from my parents. Children interacted differently with peers and adults. There may have not been more communication, but there was definitely better communication, since most of the time it was done through actually talking. Today, as you look around campus, or anywhere that has a cell-tower near by, people seemed glued to their phones, as if the little glowing screen is like a drug. They are constantly checking texts, social media accounts, news, etc. Today’s younger generation is less social because of the smart phone, because they feel like they are already with their friends by constantly talking to them over the phone and through social media. Isn’t that funny, that social media made us less social? This also causes the younger generation to less likely go out to parties, however, which decreases their chances of becoming physically hurt. This, of course, is seen as a positive effect. But while many children stay in their houses every night glued to their smartphones, their mental health is negatively impacted.

In the article, here have been studies that show there is an increase in depression in teens. As a teen myself, I can easily see how someone can get upset by constantly looking at a smartphone and social media. Teens see unrealistic photos of models and celebrities everyday, and they think they should look like them too. There are applications used to alter these photos, which creates an unrealistic picture. Unfortunately, there is no hiding from smartphones and social media, since there are items almost everyone has these days. However, in the article, it is encouraged for teens to try to put down their phone more, for that this will lead to better mental health.

Twege does an excellent job comparing the advancement of technology and smartphones to a detrimental paradigm shift in society. The younger generation grew up with smartphones and social media, and they do not know what life is like without it. Twege’s facts and data about the drastic change in mental and social health provided support her argument of why smartphones impact our youth negatively. I don’t think, however, anyone needs facts or data to see that.