Digital Dementia: What Does Physical Friendship Mean? Physical Gifts vs. Virtual Gifts

The project explores how excessive dependence on technology, social media, and virtual communication can influence memory, attention, empathy, emotional intelligence, and the quality of interpersonal relationships. Participants reflect on the differences between physical and virtual forms of connection, including face-to-face friendship versus online interaction, handwritten letters and emails, as well as physical gifts compared to digital expressions of appreciation.

Through non-formal education methods such as theatre exercises, storytelling, role-play, creative workshops, reflection circles, outdoor activities, and intercultural dialogue, participants analyze how digital culture changes the way people communicate, build trust, express emotions, and create meaningful human bonds. The mobility also encourages participants to rediscover authenticity, presence, active listening, and community connection in an increasingly virtual world.

The project promotes awareness about healthy digital habits, emotional balance, and conscious use of technology while supporting the development of innovative youth work methods that combine digital tools with real human interaction. At the same time, the mobility strengthens intercultural cooperation and encourages young people and youth workers to create more empathetic, balanced, and human-centered communities across Europe.