Gen Zers face ‘blindness epidemic’ due to lack of sunlight from staring at phones
A recent report has revealed that Generation Z is facing a concerning trend of “face blindness” due to their excessive use of smartphones and lack of exposure to natural sunlight. Face blindness, also known as prosopagnosia, is a cognitive disorder that impairs a person’s ability to recognize faces, even those of close friends and family members.
The report suggests that the rise of smartphones and social media platforms has led to an increase in screen time among Gen Zers, resulting in a lack of time spent outdoors and exposure to natural sunlight. This lack of sunlight has been linked to a decrease in the production of vitamin D, which is essential for maintaining healthy brain function and cognitive abilities, including facial recognition. Furthermore, the constant use of smartphones and social media has been found to contribute to a decrease in social interactions and face-to-face communication, further exacerbating the issue of face blindness among Gen Zers. Without regular practice in recognizing and interpreting facial expressions, young people may struggle to develop and maintain strong interpersonal relationships.
Experts are urging parents and educators to encourage Gen Zers to limit their screen time and spend more time outdoors, engaging in activities that promote face-to-face interactions and social connections. Additionally, they recommend incorporating activities that challenge facial recognition skills, such as memory games and exercises that focus on interpreting facial expressions. It is crucial for society to address the growing issue of face blindness among Gen Zers and take proactive steps to promote healthy screen habits and outdoor activities to ensure the cognitive well-being of future generations. By prioritizing face-to-face interactions and exposure to natural sunlight, we can help prevent the detrimental effects of excessive screen time on cognitive abilities and social skills.
