digitallydependent

Digitallydependent is a term used to describe the condition or state in which individuals, organizations, or systems rely extensively on digital technologies for daily functioning, communication, and access to information and services. The concept encompasses hardware devices, software platforms, networks, and cloud services that support work, education, commerce, and social life. The term is not formal in medical taxonomies but is used in academic and policy discussions to describe the degree of reliance on digital ecosystems.

Usage and examples: Smartphone and social media dependence, remote work infrastructure, smart home devices, and digital health tools illustrate digitallydependent contexts. Indicators include high screen time, frequent online connectivity, and routine use of cloud-based services.

Impacts: Digitallydependent can enable efficiency, rapid information access, and new opportunities, but it can also raise concerns about privacy, security, resilience, and mental well-being. Dependence may exacerbate the digital divide and create vulnerabilities during outages or service disruptions.

Responses and policy: Efforts to address digitallydependent include digital literacy programs, offline contingencies, robust cybersecurity, data privacy standards, and equitable access to broadband and devices.

See also: technostress, digital divide, information society.