In an increasingly digital world, the importance of social networking and the use of screens is becoming ever more apparent. Whether it's keeping in touch with friends from a distance, finding news or entertainment, screens have become an integral part of daily life for many.
However, with this increase in use, concerns have emerged about the potential impact on our well-being. One study (https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6465981/) revealed that social networks are particularly important for those reporting financial, relationship, mental health and exam stress. However, the same study also showed that age and gender influence screen addiction, but that stress and demographic factors explain only a small part of screen use.
The importance of social networking under stress
Social networks can be a lifeline for those under pressure. For those under financial stress, social networks can offer opportunities for job hunting, financial advice and even emotional support from others in similar situations.
Similarly, those experiencing relational stress can find comfort in sharing their experiences and in the support of others. Mental health stress can also be alleviated through the use of social networks, where individuals can find supportive communities, resources and advice. Finally, for students stressed by exams, social networks can provide study resources, advice and a place to decompress and relax.
The influence of age and gender on screen addiction: a scientific perspective
Research has begun to look at the factors that can influence this dependence, including age and gender. This article will examine the results of this study (https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2016.00175/full) and will attempt to shed light on how these demographic factors can influence screen addiction.
The role of age in screen addiction
Teenagers are more at risk of addiction and problematic phone use, which is why many studies focus on them. As a general rule, phone use declines with age. The most assiduous users are young people under 20, especially those around 14. This is probably due to their difficulty in controlling themselves. They spend most of their time texting, although other means of communication are gaining in popularity over time.
Some teenagers are so addicted to their phones that they never switch them off, even at night, which can be detrimental to their sleep. In fact, 27% of 11- to 14-year-olds say they never switch off their phone, and this percentage increases with age. For example, between the ages of 13 and 14, one in three never turns it off. The age at which you get your first phone can also have an impact: the younger you get it, the more likely you are to use it excessively in the future. One study has shown that young people who get their first phone before the age of 13 are the most likely to have problems of dependence or excessive use.
The influence of gender on screen addiction
Women have higher levels of addiction and problematic use than men, and use them mainly to keep in touch with others. They text a lot and use messaging apps a lot. Sometimes they use their phones to avoid feeling bad, which can make them impatient or uncomfortable, and can lead them to spend more than they should.
Men, on the other hand, use their phones to send messages, make calls and play games. They are also more likely than women to use their phones in risky situations. One study has shown that calling, texting and social networking are the most problematic uses of the phone.
However, it's important to note that these factors explain only a small part of screen use. This suggests that other factors may also play an important role, such as personality traits, individual habits and preferences, and the social and cultural environment.
Beyond stress and demographic factors
While stress and demographic factors may play a role in screen use, they explain only a small part of it. This suggests that screen use is a complex phenomenon that is probably influenced by a multitude of factors. For example, personality traits, such as introversion or extroversion, can influence how individuals use and interact with social media. Similarly, the social and cultural environment can also play a role, with different social norms influencing how individuals use and perceive screens.
In short, while stress and demographic factors can influence screen and social networking use, they're only part of the story. Screen use is a complex phenomenon, influenced by a multitude of factors ranging from personality traits to the social and cultural environment. Understanding these factors and how they interact can help us develop more effective strategies for managing screen use and promoting digital well-being.
References :
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6465981/
https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fpsyt.2016.00175/full
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