Nama : Mazaya Nazmi Azzahra (22)

Benefits and Risks of Gadget Use in a Globalized World

In today's era of globalization, gadgets have become an inseparable part of daily life. Devices
such as smartphones and tablets offer convenience in communication, access to information, and
various digital services. However, it is crucial for us to be aware of their negative impacts, such as
mental health issues, social disturbances, and physical health risks. Therefore, we must use gadgets
wisely and in moderation to ensure a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

Firstly, gadgets bring many benefits, but excessive use can lead to significant mental health
problems. Research consistently shows that intensive gadget use, especially on social media
platforms, is linked to anxiety and depression. Social media often encourages unhealthy
comparisons, which can negatively impact self-esteem and contribute to feelings of inadequacy.

Secondly, gadgets can disrupt face-to-face social interactions. Many people, including
children, become absorbed in their screens, neglecting communication with those around them. This
can lead to social isolation and hinder the development of important social skills, especially among
young people. Face-to-face interaction is essential for building meaningful relationships and fostering
strong communication skills, which are increasingly undermined by the prevalence of digital devices.

Finally, overuse of gadgets can have detrimental effects on physical health. Prolonged screen
time is associated with vision problems, poor posture, and sedentary lifestyles. This lack of physical
activity contributes to various health issues, including obesity, chronic pain, and sleep disturbances,
which are exacerbated by late-night gadget use.

To avoid these negative consequences, it is important to use gadgets wisely and in

moderation. Setting limits on screen time, taking regular breaks, and prioritizing face-to-face
communication over virtual interactions can help reduce the harmful effects of gadgets. We should
also engage in more physical activities to counteract the sedentary lifestyle that gadget use
promotes. By doing so, we can enjoy the benefits of modern technology while maintaining our
mental, social, and physical well-being.

LANGUAGE FEATURES

The language features or linguistic characteristics of hortatory exposition are as follows:

1. Using simple present tense, because this text presents opinions that are not bound by time
references.
2. Presenting arguments, so there are conjunctions such as firstly, secondly, furthermore, in
addition, and others.
3. There are relating verbs, modal verbs, thinking verbs, and action verbs.
4. Using evaluative words such as important, valuable, and others.
5. Using passive voice or passive sentences.
MAIN IDEAS

Paragraph 1:

Gadgets, such as smartphones and tablets, have become essential in daily life, providing
convenience but also posing risks to mental health, social interactions, and physical well-being.
Therefore, moderation in gadget use is necessary for a healthy lifestyle.

Paragraph 2:

Excessive gadget use, particularly on social media, can lead to significant mental health
issues, such as anxiety and depression, due to unhealthy comparisons and negative impacts on self-
esteem.

Paragraph 3:

Overuse of gadgets disrupts face-to-face communication, leading to social isolation and

hindering the development of essential social skills, particularly in children and young people.

Paragraph 4

Prolonged gadget use is linked to various physical health issues, including vision problems,
poor posture, and sedentary lifestyles, which can contribute to obesity and sleep disturbances.

Paragraph 5

To mitigate negative effects, it is essential to use gadgets wisely by setting screen time limits,
taking breaks, prioritizing in-person communication, and engaging in physical activities, allowing us
to benefit from technology while preserving our overall well-being.

GENERIC STRUCTURE

*THESIS STATEMENT*

In today's era of globalization, gadgets have become an inseparable part of daily life. Devices such as
smartphones and tablets offer convenience in communication, access to information, and various
digital services. However, it is crucial for us to be aware of their negative impacts, such as mental
health issues, social disturbances, and physical health risks. Therefore, we must use gadgets wisely
and in moderation to ensure a balanced and healthy lifestyle.

*ARGUMENTS*

Firstly, gadgets bring many benefits, but excessive use can lead to significant mental health problems.
Research consistently shows that intensive gadget use, especially on social media platforms, is linked
to anxiety and depression. Social media often encourages unhealthy comparisons, which can
negatively impact self-esteem and contribute to feelings of inadequacy.

Secondly, gadgets can disrupt face-to-face social interactions. Many people, including children,
become absorbed in their screens, neglecting communication with those around them. This can lead
to social isolation and hinder the development of important social skills, especially among young
people. Face-to-face interaction is essential for building meaningful relationships and fostering strong
communication skills, which are increasingly undermined by the prevalence of digital devices.

Finally, overuse of gadgets can have detrimental effects on physical health. Prolonged screen time is
associated with vision problems, poor posture, and sedentary lifestyles. This lack of physical activity
contributes to various health issues, including obesity, chronic pain, and sleep disturbances, which
are exacerbated by late-night gadget use.

*RECOMMENDATION*

To avoid these negative consequences, it is important to use gadgets wisely and in moderation.
Setting limits on screen time, taking regular breaks, and prioritizing face-to-face communication over
virtual interactions can help reduce the harmful effects of gadgets. We should also engage in more
physical activities to counteract the sedentary lifestyle that gadget use promotes. By doing so, we can
enjoy the benefits of modern technology while maintaining our mental, social, and physical well-
being.

SOCIAL FUNGTION

The social function of this text is to persuade readers to:

Be mindful of the negative effects of excessive gadget use on mental, social, and physical health.
Take proactive steps to limit gadget use, engage in healthier habits, and balance their technology use
with face-to-face interactions and physical activities.