“Impact of Technology on Growth and Development of Adolescents from Selected Educational Institutes of Pune City”

Abstract

Introduction: Technology has become a defining feature of the 21st century, influencing nearly every aspect of human life, particularly among adolescents. As digital natives, adolescents are growing up in an era where smartphones, social media, online education, and digital entertainment are not just tools but fundamental elements of their daily routines. The integration of technology into education, communication, and social interactions has reshaped how adolescents learn, develop relationships, and engage with the world around them.

Aims of the Study: To assess the impact of technology on growth and development of adolescents from selected educational institutes of Pune city.

Methodology: This quantitative study used a descriptive research design to collect data from adolescents at a selected educational institute in Pune City. Teenagers between the ages of 14 and 18 who attend particular educational institutions make up the accessible population. Sample size was 500 and non-probability purposive technique was used. Data was gathered using Structured Questionnaire to assess Technology use among adolescents.

Results: The data indicates that technology's impact on adolescents is largely neutral, with 86.2% of respondents rating it within the neutral range (57-112). The mean score of 100.29 and standard deviation of 13.83 suggest that adolescents generally perceive technology neither as significantly beneficial nor harmful. While 13.8% view it positively, recognizing benefits like enhanced learning and social interaction, none see it as negative. This suggests that technology's role in adolescent development is complex and context-dependent, with potential for both support and hindrance based on usage patterns.

Conclusion: Overall, the data suggests that certain demographic factors, such as age and gender, significantly affect how adolescents perceive the impact of technology, with younger males tending to view technology more positively. However, factors like residence, number of siblings, internet access, and screen time do not significantly affect perceptions. The findings highlight that while technology's influence is nuanced and variable, certain demographics may experience or recognize its impact differently.