What About the People? Unlocking the Key to Socially Sustainable and Resilient Communities | Technology Can Make Your Relationships Shallower

What About the People? Unlocking the Key to Socially Sustainable and Resilient Communities | Technology Can Make Your Relationships Shallower

Interacting, getting along—with or in spite of social or ethnic differences—and collaborating on group initiatives help sustain communities in ordinary times and respond resiliently during times of crisis. These social factors can improve residents’ health, well-being, daily quality of life, and collective capacity to cope with, and adapt to, disasters.

City policy makers, planners, and designers can adopt “socially-aware planning:” the intention to promote positive social interaction and social impacts through the mindful planning, designing, construction, and management of cities. By considering the needs and preferences of the people who live in these communities, they can create spaces that foster a sense of belonging, promote social cohesion, and enhance overall well-being.

However, the rise of technology has presented a new challenge to social sustainability. While advancements in communication technology have made it easier than ever to connect with others, they have also had unintended consequences. Research has shown that greater use of the internet is associated with declines in communication with family members in the household, as well as declines in the size of social circles.

More concerning is the impact on mental health. Increased internet use has been linked to increases in depression and loneliness. During the early months of the pandemic, researchers found that email, social media, online gaming, and texting were inadequate substitutes for in-person interactions. Voice and video calls were slightly better, but still not as fulfilling as face-to-face communication.

Social connectedness is a key to happiness, and when it is diminished, both individuals and their loved ones suffer. Children, in particular, are affected by their parents' use of technology. A survey found that 62 percent of U.S. children believed their parents were too distracted to listen to them, with phone use being the main reason.

The problem with technology-mediated communication is that it lacks dimensionality. Conversations conducted over text or online tend to be shallow and lack depth. In contrast, face-to-face conversations are more expansive and meaningful. Excessive use of solitary and screen-based diversion has been linked to lower happiness and mood disorders such as depression and anxiety.

To mitigate the negative effects of technology on relationships and well-being, it is important to use it mindfully. One approach is to turn devices from color to grayscale, which has been reported to reduce screen time. Additionally, making an effort to meet in person whenever possible, especially with loved ones, can help maintain deeper connections. When face-to-face meetings are not feasible, using video calls or the phone is a better alternative to texting or online messaging.

In conclusion, socially sustainable and resilient communities depend on positive social interaction and collaboration. City planners and policymakers should prioritize the creation of spaces that promote social cohesion and well-being. However, the rise of technology has introduced new challenges to social sustainability by diminishing face-to-face communication and deep connections. Mindful use of technology, prioritizing in-person interactions, and using video calls or the phone for personal conversations can help counteract the negative effects and maintain meaningful relationships. By striking a balance between technological advancements and human connection, we can unlock the key to socially sustainable and resilient communities.