Approximately how many hours do 18-year-olds typically spend online?
In a comprehensive report titled "Addictive Behaviours at 18: Internet Use," ICAD reveals a significant rise in the average daily internet usage among 18-year-olds between 2017 and 2024. The report, released in conjunction with National Defence Day 2024, surveyed 91,989 young people.
According to the findings, 60% of 18-year-olds use the internet for an average of four hours or more per day, with 38% using it for five hours or more. This represents an increase in the number of young people spending substantial amounts of time online, with more spending five or more hours per day.
The report also highlights a shift in internet usage patterns between boys and girls. While boys tend to start using the internet earlier, girls are more likely to spend more time online. On average, girls use social media for slightly longer periods, with 15% using it for six or more hours a day, compared to 12% of boys.
The prevalence of internet use is nearly identical for boys and girls, but the report notes an eight percentage point difference in the percentage of young people who reported starting to use the internet before age 10. This difference was more pronounced among girls, with a more significant increase in the number of girls who began using the internet after age 10.
The report also reveals that 97% of 18-year-olds use social media, with 96% of boys and 99% of girls using it. Among these users, 36% have reported experiencing various problems associated with internet use, including performance problems at school/work, health problems, behavioural problems, financial problems, acts of violence or disorderly conduct, unprotected sex, and emotional distress.
The rise in internet usage among 18-year-olds since 2015 is noteworthy. ICAD reports that the use of social media among this age group has increased significantly since 2015, although the exact figures for 2017 were not provided in the report.
These findings provide valuable insights into the digital habits of young people and highlight the need for continued research and discussions about the potential impacts of excessive internet use on this age group.
[1] ICAD (2024). Addictive Behaviours at 18: Internet Use. [Report] [2] GWI (2021). Global Social Media Research Summary. [Report] [3] Pew Research Center (2018). Teens, Social Media & Technology Overview 2018. [Report] [4] DataReportal (2020). Digital 2020: Global Overview. [Report]
- Portugal, being a part of this global trend, may find similar results pertaining to excessive internet use among its 18-year-olds, particularly with regards to social media adoption, given the significant increase observed since 2015 as reported by ICAD.
- Considering the findings, it is crucial to address the mental health implications of extended internet usage among young people, given that 36% of 18-year-olds who use social media have reported experiencing various problems associated with it, such as emotional distress.
- In light of the report's findings, integrated health-and-wellness programs that focus on mental health, particularly in the context of social media usage, could be beneficial for promoting positive online behaviors among 18-year-olds, thereby contributing to their overall well-being.
