A recent study from Aalto University in Finland reveals a surprising connection between online shopping and stress levels. Researchers found that engaging in online shopping may increase stress more significantly than activities such as reading the news, checking emails, or viewing adult content. Published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, the study highlights the complex relationship between internet usage and mental well-being.
The research, led by doctoral researcher Mohammed Belal, emphasizes that while the internet can serve as a source of stress relief, it may also contribute to heightened anxiety. “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,” Belal stated.
Over a seven-month period, the study tracked nearly 1,500 adults and combined their internet usage data with self-reported stress levels. Findings indicated that individuals spending time on platforms like YouTube, streaming services, or online gaming reported increased stress. Interestingly, those who spent time on news sites and adult entertainment experienced lower stress levels.
Belal noted, “Somewhat surprisingly, people who spent a lot of time on news sites reported less stress than others. On the other hand, those who already experienced a lot of stress didn’t spend much time on news sites.” This observation aligns with previous research suggesting that heightened stress often leads to decreased news consumption.
The study also revealed gender disparities in stress levels, with women reporting more stress than men. Additionally, older and wealthier participants tended to experience less stress overall. The researchers suggested that the short-duration consumption of adult content may serve as a quick remedy for stress or boredom, contributing to its lower associated stress levels.
Understanding the Impact of Digital Behavior
As the influence of social media and digital behaviors on mental health is increasingly scrutinized, this research underscores a critical gap in understanding how internet usage impacts well-being. Belal pointed out, “It leaves a huge critical gap in understanding how online behaviors impact stress and well-being.” The findings come at a time when policies, such as the recent ban on social media for children in Australia, are being closely monitored worldwide.
The study’s methodology stands out due to its innovative approach. Assistant professor Juhi Kulshrestha explained that researchers utilized a tracking program installed on users’ devices rather than relying solely on self-reported data. This comprehensive method, combined with the large sample size, enhances the validity of the findings.
Despite the significant insights, Kulshrestha emphasized the need for further research to clarify the relationship between stress, internet usage, and well-being. “Are people more stressed because they are spending more time online shopping or on social media, or are such sites offering them important support in times of duress?” she questioned.
Looking ahead, Kulshrestha and her team plan to explore how different types of news consumption—whether political, entertainment, or sports—affect stress and overall well-being. The objective is to gather better data that can help internet users achieve a healthier balance in their online activities.
In conclusion, as the digital landscape continues to evolve, understanding the implications of online behaviors on mental health becomes increasingly vital. The insights from this study may lead to the development of new tools designed to help individuals manage their internet usage and enhance their well-being.
