The Effect of Smartphones and Social Media On People’s Health

This comprehensive book by Dr. Amdy Diene examines the complex relationship between digital technology and human well-being in the modern era. Published in 2024, the work provides an evidence-based exploration of how smartphones and social media affect physical, mental, and social health while offering practical strategies for maintaining digital wellness. The book is structured across ten chapters, each addressing distinct aspects of the digital health landscape:
The opening chapter establishes the context of our “always-connected culture,” acknowledging both the benefits of increased connectivity and access to health resources while introducing the challenges of constant digital engagement. The author takes a balanced approach, avoiding both techno-optimism and digital alarmism.
Physical health consequences are extensively covered in Chapter 2, examining issues like “text neck,” digital eye strain, and sleep disruption from blue light exposure. The author provides a detailed analysis of how prolonged device use affects musculoskeletal health and circadian rhythms, supported by current research.
Chapter 3 delves into the neuroscience of digital addiction, explaining how dopamine-driven feedback loops and variable reward schedules create compelling engagement patterns. The author provides a sophisticated analysis of the neurobiological mechanisms underlying smartphone addiction.
The relationship between social media and mental health is thoroughly explored in Chapter 4, examining both positive aspects (support networks, resource access) and negative impacts (depression, anxiety, loneliness). The author pays particular attention to how different patterns of social media use can either enhance or diminish psychological well-being.
Cognitive impacts are analyzed in Chapter 5, investigating how digital technology affects attention spans, information processing, and deep thinking. The author researches how constant connectivity influences cognitive load and mental performance.
Chapter 6 examines how digital technology transforms relationships, from friendships to romantic partnerships to family dynamics. The author explores how online interactions both facilitate and complicate human connections.
Body image and social comparison are addressed in Chapter 7, with a particular focus on how social media affects self-perception and the rise of “Snapchat dysmorphia.” The author examines the relationship between social media use and eating disorders.
Chapter 8 focuses on children and teens, examining their vulnerabilities in the digital age. The author analyzes the impacts on development, education, and social relationships, particularly cyberbullying. Practical solutions are presented in Chapter 9, which offers evidence-based strategies for digital detox and developing healthier technology habits. The author provides actionable advice for maintaining digital wellness.
The final chapter looks toward the future of digital well-being, exploring how technology might be better designed to support rather than undermine human health. The author discusses emerging trends and potential solutions for current challenges.
Throughout the book, Dr. Diene maintains a scholarly approach while keeping the content accessible to general readers. The work is extensively referenced with over 160 citations, drawing on recent research from diverse fields, including neuroscience, psychology, and public health. The author consistently provides practical implications and recommendations alongside theoretical understanding.