Despite tech innovations, more folks are feeling isolated

Technology is an integral part of life: it’s more than just convenience. Despite having everything at your fingertips, more and more people are feeling isolated.

A new report from PlayUSA on Americans and their technology use finds many are using their phones and self-checkouts to avoid human interaction. In fact, 3 in 4 say tech-based interactions have led to a decrease in social skills.

• 45% get anxious talking on the phone
• 60% use self-service kiosks to avoid talking to people
• 74% prefer delivery drop-off to avoid talking to drivers

Some people will even inconvenience themselves to avoid talking to others: nearly 1 in 6 will wait for a self-service kiosk even if the human-run checkout had no line.

For others, the decrease in human interactions is welcomed as 61% of introverts say technology reduces their social anxiety and 62% are glad tech is replacing face-to-face interactions.