E-Addiction: Is your cell phone a drug?

Science North Science Cafés

Addiction to technology is a growing issue as it infiltrates every point of our lives. We now play hyper-realistic video games, we invest and foster our relationships through social media, and we are expected to be in touch through mobile devices at all times. But when using technology becomes compulsive and interferes with daily life, can we diagnose this as an addiction? E-addiction, like other addictions can cause neurological complications, psychological disturbances, and social problems. How is technology designed to promote prolonged engagement? How does our brain react to technology? Is e-addiction a symptom of other disorders such as anxiety or depression? How do we treat this new and evolving disorder?

Panelists:

Dr. Aaron Langille
Master Lecturer. Department of Mathematics & Computer Science, Laurentian University.

Dr. Michel Lariviere
Practicing Clinical Psychologist at Sudbury Psychology;
Full Professor, School of Human Kinetics, Laurentian University

Danielle Waltenbury
Senior Scientist, Science North, Parent.

Dr. Matias Mariani
Clinical Psychologist and Neuropsychologist at Mariani and Associates Assistant Professor, Northern Ontario School of Medicine Adjunct Professor, Department of Psychology, Laurentian University.