Half of young people want to reduce their screen time

A recent study conducted by the youth charity OnSide has shed light on the pervasive use of digital devices among today’s youth and the challenges they face in trying to reduce screen time. The survey, which included 5,213 participants aged 11 to 18, highlights a strong dependence on screens outside school hours, underpinning the phenomenon dubbed as “Generation Isolation.”

The data reveals that 76% of young individuals spend most of their leisure time on screens due to habit, boredom, and a fear of missing out. Consequently, 75% of these young people remain predominantly at home, consequently limiting opportunities for in-person social interactions. The predominant activities engaged in during this screen time include streaming content, gaming, and staying connected with friends through social media platforms.

Interestingly, although devices play a significant role in their daily routines, over half of the youths surveyed (52%) expressed a desire to cut down on their usage. However, a significant portion of them (42%) admitted to being uncertain about effective strategies to achieve this reduction.

The findings also suggest that involvement in youth clubs could be beneficial for this generation struggling with excessive screen time. OnSide reports that 93% of youths who participate in youth centre activities have experienced positive life changes as a result. To illustrate the potential benefits, Ethan, a 15-year-old from The Hive Youth Zone, shared that his involvement in the club has notably enhanced his mental health and social skills, in addition to forming new friendships.

Despite the immersive nature of screen time, only a small fraction (15%) of young people indicated that using their smartphones actually contributes to their happiness. This sentiment echoes findings from the Girl’s Attitude Survey by Girlguiding, which noted that many girls and young women have encountered online harms, yet remain hesitant to disconnect due to fears of missing out on digital interactions.

The study provides a detailed snapshot of young people’s screen habits and their mixed feelings about smartphone usage, revealing both the allure and the potential drawbacks of modern digital life for this generation.

Source: Noah Wire Services