How has your brain adapted to the digital world?
An article was posted on Psychology Today by Rebecca Rolland Ed.D discussing how she has seen first hand how the digital world has rewired our way of thinking and how we process information.
Rebecca explains that that before the internet was a major component in everyday life people had a “pre-internet mindset”. This mindset required people to be able to sit with the discomfort of not knowing answers such as an actors name or quickest routes to a destination. This would require individuals to formulate the answer using creative strategies such as describing a close second or using the process of elimination.
While these mental tasks are seen as more of a small issue, according to Rebecca these present times has brought big changes as this information is now available at the click of a button. While the fast access to any information is useful, it is highlighted in this article that the need to sit with uncertainty and use sustained concertation to solve problems/find answers has been reduced. Furthermore, Rebecca explains that she has observed three thinking adaptations that people have developed in response to the digital world.
Deep Processors: The Sustained Thinkers
Have maintained the ability to sit with complexity and uncertainty, uses brain to think of creative solutions or alternatives, tend to let their minds wander and noticing where their thoughts naturally drift
Quick Synthesizers: The Rapid Integrators
Excel in rapid information gathering and efficient problem solving, accuracy matters to them, Prefer to investigate complex topics before sharing opinions,
Pattern Navigators: The Flexible Adaptors.
Able to shift between deep and quick thinking depending on the needs of the situation, they keep reading a complex topic and keep notes mentals notes on what to research further, might write down fast passing thoughts when they wake up, they can sustain focus for problem solving and also use technology strategically
It is explained in the article that the goal is not to find the best style but rather encourage people to understand their own natural way of thinking and learn to work with it . Understanding strengths and being aware of the challenges are both useful tools in moving forward in the world today.
If you are interested on learning more about this you can visit the article by clicking the link below.
Link - How Has Your Brain Adapted to the Digital Age? | Psychology Today
Until next time,
Take care.