Technology, Boredom and Intellectual-Spiritual Lethargy: Exploring the Impact of Technology on the Mental Well-being of Over-Stimulated Millennials

Abstract

Introduction: Generally, it is considered that boredom is a product of low arousal and can be addressed by the availability of stimulating activities and choices. This study helps see the connection between anxiety and boredom on the one hand and technological hyper-stimulation and boredom, on the other. We define existential boredom as the mood of anxiety about the uncertainty of human life and eventual death. This feeling is positive if it leads one to contemplation or deeper understanding. The hypothesis behind this paper is that in the absence of right resources in the current world, to face and deal with existential anxiety, boredom becomes a negative way where such thoughts and feelings, when encountered, are suppressed through technological distractions. Methods: We chose interpretive interviews because they allow the interviewee to have a reflective conversation about their state and allow themselves to become more aware of the nature of distractions and their impact on their mental and spiritual health. More technological stimulation means more boredom since the cause of boredom has not been addressed. Results: Our results indicate that lingering boredom has a relationship with technological overstimulation. Conclusion: Technology impacts our experience of boredom in complex, non-linear ways that cannot be understood without a philosophical and phenomenological analysis of both boredom and technology Implications: Once we have understood this dimension of boredom and its harmful impact when young people try to suppress it through over-engagement with technology, we hope experts could come up with more effective ways of dealing with it.