Global study finds internet use linked to increased overall wellbeing.

As debate intensifies on internet’s effects, researcher warns against universal solutions.

While spending time online is commonly depicted as undesirable, research indicates that internet usage is linked to increased wellbeing worldwide. The potential effects of the internet, especially social media, on wellbeing have sparked significant debate. Professor Andrew Przybylski from the University of Oxford, who co-authored the study, stated, “Our analysis is the first to examine the relationship between internet access, mobile internet access, and regular internet usage and wellbeing on a global scale.

Przybylski noted that prior research suffered from inadequately executed studies, a narrow focus on North America and Europe, and an emphasis on technology-related concerns, especially regarding young individuals. He expressed the need to develop targeted advice, tools, and regulations for safeguarding young people. However, he emphasized that the requisite evidence is lacking in a practical sense for achieving these objectives.

Detailed in the journal Technology, Mind and Behavior, the research outlines the analysis conducted by Przybylski and Dr. Matti Vuorre from Tilburg University in the Netherlands. They scrutinized data gathered through interviews involving approximately 1,000 individuals annually from 168 countries as part of the Gallup World Poll.

Participants responded to inquiries concerning their internet accessibility and usage, along with eight distinct indicators of wellbeing, such as life satisfaction, social connections, sense of purpose, and communal wellbeing.

The study encompassed data spanning from 2006 to 2021, incorporating roughly 2.4 million participants aged 15 and above.

While I’d prefer to fully embrace these findings and hope for their complete accuracy, there are, regrettably, counterarguments and evidence suggesting otherwise,” she remarked, highlighting reports indicating a surge in “sextortion” cases in Canada, notably impacting teenage boys.

Professor Simeon Yates from the University of Liverpool acknowledged the substantial attention on online harms but also emphasized the existence of benefits. He noted that both aspects possess nuances beyond what the latest study managed to encapsulate.