Increasingly connected

Everything around us seems to be pushing us to use screens, whether it’s smartphones, which allow us to stay connected everywhere all the time, wider access to Wi-Fi, or the countless apps and platforms developed to draw our attention.

Why?

Hyperconnectivity is no coincidence. Technological advances have led to the development of more efficient and accessible devices. The Internet has gradually become an indispensable work and information tool for many of us. It’s also a tool that meets people’s needs and wants, such as socializing at any time and virtually unlimited access to entertainment.

The result?

We use our screens often without a care or a second thought, whether at home, at school, at work, or even during our leisure time! In fact, the Internet is so useful that we’ve allowed it to occupy an important place in our lives, one that is sometimes too important. And that’s where the risk is.

Not convinced? Here are some statistics:

For children and teens…

• In Canada (2018), 42% of children younger than 9 years old, 55% of youth aged 10 to 13, and 77% of teens older than 14 years old have their own smartphone with an Internet connection.
• According to a Montreal study (2020), more than 4 h of recreational screen time per day is associated with a higher risk of school dropout, fewer personal and social resources, insufficient sleep as well as poorer mental and physical health in general.
• In Quebec (2016), it is estimated that nearly 18% of high school students are at risk of developing problematic Internet use.

…and let’s not forget adults!

• In Quebec (2021), 97% of adults have at least one of the following devices: personal computer, smartwatch, smartphone, electronic tablet, connected exercise bracelet.
• According to a Montreal study (2019), more than 4 h of recreational screen time per day is significantly associated with a higher level of psychological distress, poorer physical health, difficulty sleeping, and a higher level of dissatisfaction in several spheres of life (relationships, finances, etc.).
• According to the latest PAUSE survey (2021), 70% of parents (ages 25 to 64) feel like they have problematic Internet and screen use (even if only a little), and 76% would like to reduce the time they spend online.

Sources

• Media Smarts (2018). The Digital Well-Being of Canadian Families.

• Montreal’s DRSP (2019). Screens and population health in Montreal.

• Dufour, M. et al (2016). Gender Difference in Internet Use and Internet Problems among Quebec High School Students.

• NETendances (2021). Portrait numérique des foyers québécois.