Our lives are driven by fast-paced movement and
constant engagement. In these times of highly intense day to day activity,
being able to connect onto the Internet is imperative, even on the go. Much of
our time is spent on the net, and therefore being able to connect wirelessly
via handheld devices, laptops, or tablets is an important feature in today’s
society. Wi-Fi has allowed electronic
devices to connect to the internet wirelessly[1],
allowing our fast-paced lifestyles to continue. The use of Wi-Fi can be
accomplished when a network is set up from a provider, however most businesses
have established a Wi-Fi service to attract customers. For example, Starbucks
has introduced free Wi-fi through AT&T to encourage customers to stay in the
store and buy more coffee versus other coffee shops that may not have it.
Why
is the market for Wi-Fi in demand? Why is it successful? According to a census done by the United States government in 2011, 75.6
percent of households were reported who used the computer and internet on a
daily basis. Just five years ago that number was at 61.8%.[2]
These numbers have skyrocketed as generations are being born with children
who have always been exposed to the internet. However, old and young
individuals are logging online and age does not seem to be an issue anymore. In
a study from Carnegie Melon University, the university looked at what
individuals were using the internet and why. Unsurprisingly enough, most
reported “enjoying myself” as the main
reason for internet usage, followed by “information about personal interests, reading
the news, and staying in touch with friends and family”[3].
The internet provides a mind-numbing addictive escape into another world.
The world online is so much more vast than reality. In a few clicks, one can
connect with long lost friends, become a hero in a game, or use it as a short
cut to take the easy way out. In short, Americans are using the internet as a
way to escape from everyday life. However, this raises a question as to why
people need an escape.
While
internet use has been on the rise, the amount of people suffering from mental
disorders is also on the rise. Anxiety affects
6.8 million Americans, Panic disorder affects over 6 million, Social anxiety
disorder affects a rousing 15 million Americans, and Major Depressive Disorder
claims 14.8 million victims in this country and is the leading cause of
disability[4].
The disorders listed also have high percentages of those who frequently use the
internet. While the internet itself is not the cause for these specific
disorders, it certainly doesn’t help. The internet allows an individual to become
reclusive and avoids whatever demons he or she may be fighting off. Suffering
from social anxiety? It is socially acceptable to hide behind a Facebook page
and interact virtually. However, that person will never learn to combat their
disorder. The internet is a mask for those who find themselves unable to deal
with reality.
While
more Americans are using the internet to escape reality, when placed into a
situation where one cannot hide behind a computer screen, Wi-Fi makes it
possible to still get lost on the internet. Wi-Fi allows individuals to check
e-mail, pour through a Facebook newsfeed, or get lost in a blog. While Wi-Fi
can be beneficial in many situations, I believe the service is being abused by
those who overdo it. Wi-Fi should be used responsibly and not as a way to avoid
dealing with life.
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