hu.euronews.com
Millions Spend Majority of Time Online: Global Study Reveals High Rates of Constant Internet Use
A new global study reveals that millions spend a significant portion of their time online, with 28 percent reporting near-constant internet use across 24 countries, raising concerns about potential negative impacts on children's mental health.
- How do internet usage rates vary across Europe and what are some of the related societal concerns?
- European countries like Spain, UK, France, Sweden, and Italy showed high rates of near-constant online time, exceeding 90 percent broadband access in some cases. Hungary shows a different trend with 12 percent of respondents reporting no internet use, highlighting potential digital divides. Concerns exist about the impact of excessive screen time on children's emotional and behavioral well-being.
- What are the most significant findings of the Pew Research Center's study on global internet usage?
- The study, covering 24 countries including 10 European nations, reveals that 28 percent of respondents report near-constant internet use. Japan (56 percent) and South Korea (49 percent) showed the highest rates, while Nigeria (13 percent) and Greece (14 percent) had the lowest.
- What policy responses are being considered in Europe to address the implications of extensive internet use, particularly among young people?
- EU policymakers, echoing concerns about social media's potential harm, are proposing regulations for major tech platforms to improve online safety. Initiatives include limiting social media and smartphone use in schools, mirroring previous approaches to regulating harmful substances like alcohol and tobacco.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article presents a balanced view of the increasing internet usage globally, highlighting both the high usage in certain countries like Japan and South Korea and the lower usage in others like Nigeria and Greece. However, the framing leans slightly towards concern by focusing on the potential negative impacts of excessive screen time, particularly on children. The headline (if there was one) would likely influence this perception. The inclusion of Von der Leyen's statement further emphasizes the potential dangers.
Language Bias
The language used is generally neutral, although terms like "alarming" and Von der Leyen's comparison of online dangers to alcohol and drugs could be considered somewhat loaded. The use of "practically constantly" to describe online time could also be seen as slightly emotive. More neutral alternatives could include 'a significant portion of their time' or 'frequently'.
Bias by Omission
The article omits discussion of the potential benefits of internet access, such as educational opportunities and increased connectivity. While it acknowledges the varying levels of internet access across countries, it doesn't explore the reasons behind these disparities (e.g., infrastructure, affordability). A more comprehensive analysis would consider both the positive and negative aspects of internet usage.
False Dichotomy
The article doesn't explicitly present a false dichotomy, but the emphasis on the negative consequences of excessive internet use might implicitly frame the issue as a simple 'good' (moderate use) versus 'bad' (excessive use) scenario, overlooking the complexities and nuances of internet usage in different contexts and for different purposes.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the excessive screen time among young people and its potential negative effects on their emotional and behavioral development. This directly relates to SDG 4 (Quality Education) which aims to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education and promote lifelong learning opportunities for all. By acknowledging the risks of excessive internet use and proposing measures like regulating social media use in schools, policymakers are actively working towards protecting children's well-being and ensuring they receive a holistic education that is not negatively impacted by technology.