Internet Access And Use Linked To Greater Wellbeing, Study Finds

The study found that despite concerns about online harms, internet access and regular use of the internet relate to wellbeing on a global level.

Spending time online is usually portrayed as something to avoid, however, a new study suggests that Internet access and use may actually contribute to greater well-being globally. The study, conducted by the Oxford Internet Institute (OII) and published in the journal Technology, Mind and Behaviour, delved into the relationship between internet usage and well-being on a global scale. It found that despite concerns about online harms, internet access and regular use of the internet relate to wellbeing on a global level. 

"Our analysis is the first to test whether or not internet access, mobile internet access and regular use of the internet relates to wellbeing on a global level," said Professor Andrew Przybylski, of the University of Oxford, who co-authored the work. 

Mr Przybylski noted the limitations of previous studies, which often focused on specific regions and age groups. Earlier studies predominately centred on North America and Europe and primarily addressed concerns surrounding technology, especially its impact on young people, he said.