You will have 20 minutes to plan, write and revise an essay about the topic below. Your response will be judged on how well you develop a position, organize your ideas, present supporting details, and control the elements of standard written English. You should write 200-300 words.
Can television assist in getting rid of our loneliness or not?
In today's society, television is a common source of entertainment, and many people use it to pass the time and combat feelings of isolation. Television can temporarily divert attention from loneliness, but it does not offer a permanent fix.
For those who may be isolated or live alone, watching television can give them a sense of connection to the outside world. TV shows can provide a way to interact with popular culture and meet people with similar interests. People who may have few social opportunities, like the elderly or those with disabilities, can benefit most from this.
It's important to understand that while watching television can temporarily alleviate loneliness, it cannot replace face-to-face interaction with others. Even though watching television by yourself can make you feel like you have company, it does not have the same advantages as face-to-face social interaction.
In fact, binge-watching television can exacerbate feelings of isolation and loneliness. Overwatching television can result in a sedentary lifestyle and a lack of exercise, which can have detrimental effects on one's mental health and general wellbeing.
In the end, while watching television can temporarily divert attention from loneliness, it is crucial to understand that this is not a sustainable solution. People need to interact with others in the real world, whether it be through volunteering, joining clubs or groups, or simply reaching out to friends and family, in order to truly overcome feelings of loneliness. People can make meaningful progress in overcoming loneliness and enhancing their general well-being by choosing active human connection over passive entertainment.
PTE Academic was launched in 2009 by Pearson Language Tests.