Natives and Immigrants: Closing the Digital Generation Gap

Abstract

The foundation of this chapter is based on evidence that there are some differences between young and older users of technology. Most of us use technology in varying degrees and for a variety of reasons. Although digital platforms continue to merge (we watch TV shows on our computers and surf the web on our TV sets), we will examine several types of screen-based technologies. We examine fundamental differences and some surprising similarities between digital natives and those of us who have been immigrants forced to learn much of the "language" we were not exposed to as children. In turn, we will examine both content and contextual issues pertaining to computer-based screen-time for children and adults. While effective boundary management between online and offline behavior is optimal for good mental and physical health, we will conclude with a discussion about why we should be concerned about technology usage across the lifespan. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2019 APA, all rights reserved) (Source: chapter)