From: hubermanlab
With the proliferation of technology, particularly smartphones, questions have arisen about their impact on our ability to maintain focus and attention. In a recent episode of the Huberman Lab Podcast, Andrew Huberman, a professor of neurobiology and ophthalmology at Stanford School of Medicine, delved into how technology, specifically smartphones, is affecting focus and potentially contributing to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) symptoms.
The Alluring Pull of Smartphones
Smartphones offer the entire world at our fingertips in a small, visually appealing package. Unlike any other technology, smartphones enable a rapid turnover of context, with countless apps, notifications, and streams of information demanding our attention simultaneously. This barrage of stimuli within the small screen creates a unique challenge for our attentional systems.
Smartphones and Attentional Capacity
According to Huberman, the sheer volume of information vying for our attention on smartphones can induce a form of ADHD in users, especially children and adolescents ([02:10:00]).
The Effects on Adolescents
A 2014 study cited by Huberman involving over 7,000 adolescents found significant impacts on attention from mobile phone use. The study suggested that in order to maintain focus and centeredness on other tasks, adolescents needed to limit smartphone use to less than 60 minutes per day ([02:12:12]). This limited time frame is quite revealing, considering the typical usage patterns among today’s youth.
Adult Considerations
For adults, the acceptable threshold for smartphone usage without significant detriment to attentional capacity may be slightly higher. Huberman suggests that about two hours of use per day may be the upper limit before notable focus deficits become evident. This estimate recognizes the cognitive demands placed on adult users and the multitasking nature of smartphone engagement ([02:13:38]).
Strategies for Mitigation
The podcast further highlights the necessity of mitigating these impacts to preserve attention and focus across age groups. One suggested strategy includes consciously limiting screen time, especially for younger users. Relying on structured and disciplined non-tech time can help counteract the constant stimuli that smartphones present.
The Guidance of Experts
Cal Newport, a computer science professor at Georgetown, is noted for his structured discipline in avoiding excessive smartphone use to maintain cognitive bandwidth for deep, meaningful work. His approach underscores the importance of regulating our interactions with technology to protect our focus ([02:13:21]).
Conclusion
The powerful grip of smartphones on our attention spans is undeniable. With their deep entrenchment in our daily lives, it’s crucial to recognize both their utility and their potential drawbacks. Limiting exposure to these devices and fostering environments that prioritize attentional stability can safeguard our cognitive resources, ultimately supporting better focus and attentional management in both youth and adults.