Every morning I get up and make breakfast. I must be addicted to breakfast. It’s usually egg whites, which means I must be addicted to those too. I then make my bed. Guess I’m addicted to making my bed. Every single day I brush my teeth, take a shower, check my e-mail (and snail mail), go to the gym, drinks lots of water, drive my car, put on my shoes, talk on the phone, wear my sunglasses, and listen to music. Obviously, I must be addicted to each and every one of those things. No? Well, that seems to be the logic of the media today based on a report by Retrevo.
The study basically finds that as a society we are using social media more and more frequently: in the mornings, on the go, and even before we go to sleep. The ridiculous conclusion that because of these results we simply must be addicted is outrageous. How the study should be interpreted is that social media is becoming a main part of our daily routine just like almost every other activity we participate in. It’s not any different just because it is fairly new or because it is technology. E-mail has been around for a while now and there aren’t many people who don’t check it in the morning (and afternoon, on the go, before bed, etc.). It’s part of our modern society.
Addiction is a serious word that should only be used in regards to conditions that are uncontrollable and inflict a negative consequence. I don’t think getting caught up on the news or your best friend’s life really falls into that category. Nor does sharing your own musings with whoever is willing to listen.
Don’t take away my Foursquare and Words With Friends. They’re all I have!