Technology and the Brain: Lessons from Patient Care, Social Media and the Internet

Abstract

Technology is sweeping through our society in unparalleled fashion, affecting our day-to-day life, education, social relationships, healthcare and business. Our human experience and neuroscience both determine how we interface with technology such that we have “good” (i.e., enjoyment, excitement) and “bad” (i.e., stress) experiences. With regard to healthcare, the patient-centered era features quality, affordable, and timely care; technology is a key part of that, particularly among younger generations. Indeed, the consumer movement related to new technologies may be passing some clinicians by, as new ways of communicating with others (text, e-mail, Twitter, Facebook, social media). More reflection is needed on how technology “changes” us, may become the focus of our worst attributes and causes significant problems (e.g., pathological Internet use, privacy/confidentiality breeches). Research approaches and frameworks are needed across many fields and disciplines of science, medicine and human behavior regarding our use of technology.