Just like a series of distractions popping up while trying to focus on a task, smartphone use can disrupt the flow of our mental effort. It’s like having a mischievous little gremlin sitting on our shoulder, constantly tempting us to divert our attention. This constant interruption prevents us from fully engaging in the task at hand and exerting prolonged mental effort. The consequence? It hampers our ability to acquire knowledge in specific domains and stifles our creativity in real-life situations. It’s as if someone sneaks into an artist’s studio and starts replacing their paintbrushes with crayons. How can we explore the depths of our creative potential when we’re unable to dive deep into learning and concentrate without interruption? Research has shown that excessive smartphone use can lead to habitual distraction, hindering our cognitive processes. To dive into the fascinating details of how smartphone use influences our mental effort, learning, and creativity, be sure to check out the research!
We argue that scientific studies have not directly assessed the key cognitive processes affected by smartphone use. We propose that smartphone use can be disruptively habitual, with the main detrimental consequence being an inability to exert prolonged mental effort. This inability might negatively affect real-life creativity and domain-specific knowledge acquisition.
Dr. David Lowemann, M.Sc, Ph.D., is a co-founder of the Institute for the Future of Human Potential, where he leads the charge in pioneering Self-Enhancement Science for the Success of Society. With a keen interest in exploring the untapped potential of the human mind, Dr. Lowemann has dedicated his career to pushing the boundaries of human capabilities and understanding.
Armed with a Master of Science degree and a Ph.D. in his field, Dr. Lowemann has consistently been at the forefront of research and innovation, delving into ways to optimize human performance, cognition, and overall well-being. His work at the Institute revolves around a profound commitment to harnessing cutting-edge science and technology to help individuals lead more fulfilling and intelligent lives.
Dr. Lowemann’s influence extends to the educational platform BetterSmarter.me, where he shares his insights, findings, and personal development strategies with a broader audience. His ongoing mission is shaping the way we perceive and leverage the vast capacities of the human mind, offering invaluable contributions to society’s overall success and collective well-being.