2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

Technological Literacy Needed: Gadget Influences on Mental Health in GenZ Population - Observed Common Challenges

Presented at Technological and Engineering Literacy/Philosophy of Engineering Division (TELPhE) Technical Session 2

The mental and behavioral changes observed among Generation Z (individuals born between 2000 and 2013) are a growing concern for academic and medical professionals. Generation Z is uniquely characterized by their upbringing in a digital era, often described as "born holding screens in their hands and raised by social media." Numerous studies suggest that the pervasive use of wireless devices contributes to the rise of medical and behavioral disorders within this demographic. These challenges, unprecedented in previous generations, underscore the urgent need for further investigation. Over the past two decades, wireless technologies - ranging from mobile phones to children's toys - have faced significant criticism regarding their safety due to prolonged exposure to electromagnetic fields (EMF). While these technologies are widely adopted, some researchers have reported potential biases in industry-sponsored studies that downplay the harmful effects of EMF radiation. Given that many biochemical processes in humans rely on electrical signaling between cells, consistent EMF exposure may disrupt these processes, potentially contributing to severe health outcomes, such as brain tumors in young children or negative impacts on biological functions.

The article is organized on a two-part approach. First, we gathered insights from two board-certified medical professionals specializing in psychiatry and mental health. They responded individually to six interview questions, sharing their observations about the typical Generation Z patients they work with, particularly young women. Their responses shed light on the mental health challenges unique to this age group, shaped by their constant exposure to technology and social media. Second, we conducted a literature review that explores how consistent exposure to gadgets and EMF affects biological cells and brain function. We aim to explain how these exposures contribute to the growing mental health crisis in Generation Z. Also, the findings highlight the necessity of technological literacy not only among educators and health professionals but also within the general public. Raising awareness of the risks associated with consistent gadget use and EMF exposure is essential across all segments of society.

Authors

Dr. Tatiana V. Goris http://orcid.org/https://0009-0007-5975-2847 Pittsburg State University [biography]

Dr. Tatiana Goris is an Associate Professor & Graduate Academic Adviser at Pittsburg State University KS, School of Technology and Workforce Learning. Dr. Goris is a Fulbright Award-Recipient, a member of professional engineering societies, and the author of multiple publications related to post-secondary education of adult learners. Dr. Goris obtained her PhD in Technology from Purdue University (2012), West Lafayette, Indiana, with an emphasis in Engineering and Technology Education. She also has a background in Electronics Engineering graduating from Taganrog Institute of Technology of Southern Federal University, Russia (1999).
Dr. Dawny Barnhart Freeman Health System [biography]

Dr. Dawny Barnhart is a board-certified psychiatrist serving the southeast Kansas Southwest Missouri regions through Freeman Hospital in Joplin Missouri. She is a physician preceptor through Kansas City University, serving on their faculty. Originally, from Iola Kansas, Dr Barnhart received her Doctorate of Osteopathic Medicine from Virginia Tech in 2012. She then completed residency at University of Missouri Kansas City -Truman Hospital.
Dr. Edwige F. Songong Pittsburg State University [biography]

Dr. Edwige F. Songong is a fervent advocate for STEM education, driving innovation and excellence. She obtained her doctoral degree from the University of Cape Town, South Africa, and her MS from Pittsburg State University. Dr. Songong has an extensive educational background in Mathematics, Physics, and Technology Management. Her multifaceted expertise extends beyond academia, with a profound dedication to nurturing the next generation of STEM professionals. As a native of Cameroon, her international perspective on the problem of females Gen Z gives a unique fresh outlook regarding life, career, and social issues. Through her leadership and mentorship, she empowers students to explore, innovate, and excel, shaping the future of engineering education and inspiring interdisciplinary collaboration worldwide.
Ms. Lisa Diane Broom Ozark Center Comprehensive Behavioral Health Services [biography]

Lisa Broom, RN, BSN has worked in a variety of nursing roles throughout her career and is currently working as the Consult Liaison Psychiatric Coordinator for Ozark Center Comprehensive Behavioral Health Services in Joplin, Mo. In her current role, she is in the hospital setting, assisting the Inpatient Psychiatric Team in the care of the medically ill with psychiatric issues. All her various nursing roles have given her excellent insight into not only medical illnesses but psychiatric illnesses at all stages of life. She has also raised two daughters, who were not exposed to gadgets as they grew, so this has given her excellent comparison to use when analyzing adolescents today. Her insight brings a nursing and mother's perspective to the growing challenges that increased gadget use has on young people today.

Note

The full paper will be available to logged in and registered conference attendees once the conference starts on June 22, 2025, and to all visitors after the conference ends on June 25, 2025

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