Digital wellbeing

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Understanding Digital Wellbeing: A Comprehensive Overview

Introduction to Digital Wellbeing

Digital wellbeing is a multifaceted concept that refers to the balance individuals achieve in their relationship with digital technologies. It encompasses the positive and negative impacts of digital media on mental, emotional, and physical health. The term has gained prominence as technology becomes increasingly integral to daily life, raising concerns about its potential to both enhance and detract from overall wellbeing .

Theoretical Models and Constructs

Dynamic Nature of Digital Wellbeing

Digital wellbeing is not a static state but a dynamic construct influenced by various factors, including personal habits, device usage, and contextual elements. A theoretical model suggests that digital wellbeing is an experiential state of optimal balance between connectivity and disconnectivity, contingent upon person-, device-, and context-specific factors. This model highlights the importance of understanding the pathways to digital wellbeing and the effectiveness of interventions aimed at disrupting negative patterns.

Frameworks and Definitions

Despite the growing interest in digital wellbeing, there is no universally accepted definition. Research has identified several constructs and values associated with digital wellbeing, such as a healthy body, functional and happy self, social connections, and self-management. These constructs vary significantly between design and evaluation studies, indicating a need for a standardized definition and validated tools to integrate digital wellbeing into the design process effectively .

Digital Wellbeing in Practice

Digital Self-Control Tools

Digital self-control tools, such as timers and lock-out mechanisms, have emerged to help users regulate their technology use. These tools aim to reduce unwanted technology use and promote healthier digital habits. However, their effectiveness varies, and there is a need for long-term studies and standardized measures to evaluate their impact comprehensively. Ethical considerations and the business models of tech companies also play a crucial role in the discourse on digital wellbeing.

Applications and User Perceptions

Mobile applications designed to support digital wellbeing are increasingly adopted by users. Studies show that individual motivations significantly influence the continued use of these applications. Digital wellbeing is perceived as more than just the use of an application; it involves a subjective consideration of the role of digital media in one's life. This highlights the importance of understanding the temporal variability, person-specificity, and device-contingent nature of digital wellbeing.

Digital Wellbeing and Health Information Behaviour

Interrelation with Health Information Behaviour

Digital wellbeing is closely linked to health information behaviour, which involves the use of technology to maintain health or manage illness. Research indicates that digital wellbeing practices are influenced by health information behaviours and vice versa. This reciprocal relationship underscores the need for further empirical investigation to understand how digital wellbeing and health information behaviour interact and influence each other.

Workplace Interventions

Digital interventions in the workplace aim to improve psychological wellbeing and manage poor mental health. Systematic reviews suggest that these interventions can be effective, but there is a need for more rigorous studies to provide concrete recommendations. The development of future workplace digital interventions should be guided by comprehensive research to ensure their effectiveness and sustainability.

Conclusion

Digital wellbeing is a complex and evolving concept that requires a nuanced understanding of the interplay between technology use and individual wellbeing. Theoretical models, practical tools, and empirical research all contribute to a deeper understanding of how to achieve and maintain digital wellbeing. As technology continues to permeate every aspect of life, ongoing research and multidisciplinary collaborations are essential to develop effective strategies and interventions that promote a healthy and balanced relationship with digital media.