How are Americans addicted to technology?

I would first consider how to best approach this question with particular terms properly defined. “Addiction” refers to a compulsive predisposition toward a certain activity and is often defined in medical terms and treated accordingly, such as in the case of drug addition.
It could be argued that Americans in general do not have such an addiction to technology. It might be more appropriate to say that Americans in general have an obsession with technology. An obsession can define a person in a deep, fundamental manner. So, consider these ways Americans may be obsessed with technology, and explore for more detailed examples according to your particular academic pursuit.

Community: The use of social media can form one’s understanding of community to the point that virtual connections and relationships take priority over real-world relationships with family and friends.


Reading and research: While the advantages of storing information in the form digital media are self-evident, it is also true that not every book has been digitized with the same degree of thoroughness as their fully searchable digital counterparts. It is thus possible for many Americans to obsess over technology to the point of ignoring physical media that can equal or exceed digital-only media that covers their particular research focus.

Novelty: New, new, new. It is obsessive to attach one’s sense of fulfillment to acquiring the newest smartphone, tablet, computer, or video game console. If a person believes they can only find happiness in having a new model of a particular piece of technology, then that person could certainly be said to have an obsession with that technology.
https://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/media-guide/science-drug-use-addiction-basics