Examining Screen Time, Screen Use Experiences, and Well-Being in Adults

Abstract

Screen technologies have been found to have adverse outcomes on people’s well-being and mental health if used excessively however findings have varied depending on the screen type being assessed. The impact of prolonged TV-watching on mental health has been well established, whereas the influence of computers, the internet, and mobile phones is still being debated. Research exploring total screen use in adults is surprisingly lacking. The current study examined the relationship between Screen Time and well-being in adults, including positive relationships, meaning, and loneliness. The study is possibly the first to investigate how much pleasure and meaning people feel during screen use and their mediating effects. Using a correlational study design, participants (N = 139) reported their hours spent on all screen devices per day, how much pleasure and meaning they experience during screen use on average, and their general well-being levels. Screen Time was not found to be significantly correlated with well-being; and screen use experiences did not mediate any of the screen time and well-being relationships. However, screen use meaning was positively associated with overall well-being and positive relationships. This finding prompts a review of the importance of screen time for well-being, suggesting that this may be a limited approach. Other factors related to screen quality may be equal if not more important for well-being. Limitations and implications for maintaining or enhancing well-being while using screen devices are discussed.