With information, artificial intelligence and social media at your fingertips, it’s easier than ever to get lost in screens. According to a new Narrative Research study, 37 per cent of Canadians are trying to cut back on their screen time. “For myself, it’s been way too much, especially because of everything going on in the states,” says Cindy Allen. “I am absolutely just fixated on it.” She’s tried to cut back but says “it hasn’t worked so far.” The study, with feedback from 1,230 Canadians from January 13-15, found that younger people are leading the charge in trying to cut back. “Millennials and people who are younger, the Gen Z folks, are much more likely to be saying, ‘I’m actively trying to get rid of the time I spend on screens,’” says Margaret Chapman, COO and partner at Narrative Research. “Half or more of them are saying, ‘I need to reduce this,’” she says. “So, to me, that’s a huge number of people who are really concerned about the effects of spending so much time on screens.” Of those trying to limit their time, 62 per cent say it’s because they want to focus more on offline activities, while 45 and 42 per cent say it’s impacting their physical or mental wellbeing, respectively. A total of 22 per cent of respondents say it’s affecting relationships with other people, while 18 per cent raise concerns about AI-generated content. The survey results were released on Thursday, at a time when some people are pushing for a nationwide social media ban for kids similar to other jurisdictions. The impact on today’s youth is top of mind for Massimo Spensieri. “These people are going to lose the face-to-face interaction and actually not know how to properly communicate with others because they’re so used to doing it through screen,” he says. In contrast, the study found the majority of people – 63 per cent – are content with the amount of time they spend on screens. “I have very high screen time, but I don’t want to reduce it,” says Bijou Allen. “I honestly don’t see that much of a problem with it.” “I used to do it (be on screens) on my break, but now I’m retired for a couple of years,” says Ricky Pellerine. “I’m on it probably a little bit more now, but I wouldn’t say I’m on a lot.” Over half of those OK with their current screen time say it doesn’t have a negative impact on their life, while 40 per cent and above say fun and entertainment is online along with learning and education. But for some, it’s also a source of social life or a requirement for work.
