Cyberphobia

Cyberphobia is a concept introduced in 1985, described as a specific phobia expressed as "an irrational fear of or aversion to computers" or more generally, a fear and/or inability to learn about new technologies.

Some forms of cyberphobia may range from the more passive forms of technophobia of those who are indifferent toward cyberspace to the responses of those who see digital technology as a medium of intrusive surveillance; more extreme responses may involve anti-technological paranoia expressed by social movements that radically oppose ‘technological society’ and ‘the New World Order’.^[1]

There are different ways that someone could experience cyberphobia. Teachers may experience a form of cyberphobia if they are forced to change their way of teaching. Another way people may experience cyberphobia is if they feel that they are incompetent, or that the new technology is not needed to advance in life, or that they feel that they lack skills for the new age of technology. Another way people may experience cyberphobia is if they feel like they are going to lose control, or the new technology will affect their status in life.

Symptoms

• avoidance of computers and other technology
• failure to complete computerized tasks
• resistance to back up hard drives or organize files
• excessive sweating
• dry mouth
• nausea
• shaking
• heart palpitations
• breathlessness ^[2]

Suggested treatments

• Approach new technologies a little bit at a time.
• Give yourself permission to experiment and make mistakes. "It's like taking up a new sport—you're not going to have a perfect golf swing the very first day."
• Discover the potential of these resources by using them, for simple tasks at fast, not just by reading the manual. Learn the basics fast.
• Find learning opportunities—computer and business magazines, seminars, on-screen tutorials, or a good book on the subject.
• To determine what software is in the greatest demand in your particular field, consult the classified ads to see which skills are frequently mentioned. Professional associations can also be of assistance in finding out what packages are used the most.^[3]

Research shows that opposition to attitudinal change can gradually give way to acceptance with the passage of time. Attitudinal change towards acceptance may be a slow and even tedious experience for some teachers.

References