A recent study from Aalto University in Finland reveals that online shopping may contribute to higher stress levels than activities such as reading the news, checking emails, or viewing adult content. Published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, the research indicates a complex relationship between internet use and perceived stress.
The findings suggest that while the internet can serve as both a source of stress and a means of relief, the act of online shopping is more strongly associated with increased stress levels. Mohammed Belal, a doctoral researcher involved in the study, states, “Previous studies have shown that social media and online shopping are often used to relieve stress. However, our results show that a rise in social media use or online shopping is linked to an increase in self-reported stress across multiple user groups and across devices.”
The research monitored the internet behaviors of nearly 1,500 adults over a seven-month period. It combined data from 47 million web visits and 14 million app usages with self-reported stress levels. The results indicate that users of platforms like YouTube and various online gaming services also reported heightened stress.
Interestingly, the study highlights that individuals who spent significant time on news websites experienced lower stress levels compared to those who engaged more in online shopping or social media. “Somewhat surprisingly, people who spent a lot of time on news sites reported less stress than others,” Belal notes. However, it is worth mentioning that participants who experienced high stress tended to limit their time on news sites, consistent with previous studies indicating that stress can decrease news consumption.
Gender and Age Factors in Stress Levels
The study also uncovered demographic patterns in reported stress levels. Women indicated experiencing more stress than men, and participants who were older or wealthier reported lower stress levels overall. The relatively de-stressing effect of adult entertainment may be attributed to its consumption in brief sessions, serving as a short-term relief from stress or boredom.
The implications of this research are significant, particularly as the influence of social media on well-being continues to be scrutinized. With recent developments such as a ban on social media for children in Australia capturing global attention, the need for a clearer understanding of internet usage and its impact on mental health has never been more pressing.
Belal emphasizes the importance of further investigation into these issues, stating, “It leaves a huge critical gap in understanding how online behaviors impact stress and well-being.” Juhi Kulshrestha, an assistant professor and co-researcher, adds that the study’s innovative approach—utilizing a tracking program installed on users’ devices—provides a more accurate picture of online behaviors than traditional self-reports.
Future Research Directions
Kulshrestha suggests that additional research is necessary to explore the specific types of news consumed, such as political, entertainment, or sports news, and their relationship with stress and well-being variables. “As we gain increasingly accurate information about people’s internet usage, it will be possible to design new kinds of tools that people can use to regulate their browsing and improve their well-being,” she explains.
The researchers believe that understanding these dynamics can lead to the development of better online services aimed at promoting mental health. They caution against blanket bans or restrictions on internet usage, which could inadvertently remove essential support for individuals who may be struggling.
As the digital landscape evolves, ongoing research will be crucial in helping users navigate their online experiences while maintaining a healthy balance in their lives. The study highlights the necessity of addressing the psychological impacts of internet use in our increasingly connected world.
