How does digital consumption affect the psychological well-being of young Spaniards? This is the question that researchers at project 'Youth in transition' of the Institute for Culture and Society (ICS) of the University of Navarra thanks to a scholarship of the Social Observatory "La Caixa". project J avier García Manglano, researcher , highlighted the importance of the study because "clear evidence is needed on the psychological impact of the Internet and social networks before adopting alarmist attitudes".

Today, an entire generation is coming of age after years of unlimited access to the Internet and social networks. According to research conducted in the United States, immoderate use of digital media appears to have detrimental effects on self-esteem and to be associated with an increased risk of anxiety and depression.

For the expert, it is necessary to qualify the digital impact: "We have a picture in which we can see that psychological distress and the misuse of technology dance together... but we do not know who started the dance". For example, he explained that spending more time on social networks can generate anxiety or, on the contrary, that the negative use of networks can be a reflection of discomfort staff.

In this way, García Manglano also recalled that some researchers defend the positive effects of new technologies. "Social networks can serve as inspiration for some people or open up virtual spaces in which to express themselves and practice social skills," he pointed out.

Young Spaniards in the digital environment

What happens in the case of Spain? To understand what is cause and what is effect in the relationship between digital consumption and discomfort staff, an analysis of 1,200 young people between 18 and 22 years of age will be carried out over four years. The time spent on social networks, their context and the purpose of use (entertainment, escape, communication, etc.) will be measured.

In addition, the role moderator of personality, the social and family context of young people and the differences in time and subject of use between men and women will be considered. "We must go beyond screen time, as not all uses of technology are harmful," indicated researcher.

The research team, led by García Manglano, is formed by the dean of the School of Communication of the University of Navarra, Charo Sádaba, and the psychologist, doctoral candidate of 'Youth in transition', Claudia López Madrigal.