Digital contact does not enhance wellbeing

This is probably the most important study of the week. It substantiates something that I have been on about in TR for some time—digital contact is not a replacement for in person communication and indeed, as far as our design specs are concerned, can be very harmful over the long term.

The new research has found that during periods of limited face-to-face contact, such as that experienced by most people during Covid-19 lockdowns, digital contact is particularly harmful for the wellbeing of young adults—and probably for the rest of us as well.

The research focused specifically on social isolation during the early stages of the pandemic, when restricted face-to-face interactions, widespread lockdowns and distancing measures were in place. Remote working has the same effect as a lockdown. The restrictions tested the capability of digital communication to foster social contact and wellbeing during this time.

The study, published by New Media and Society, suggests that video or text-based messaging apps in particular can have a negative effect on the mental wellbeing of people over 16. For empathetic people, who readily recognize and align with others’ emotions, wellbeing was worst when communicating via video chat.

Despite its legal and health threats, face-to-face contact was still positively associated with wellbeing compared to digital contact. Perceived household vulnerability to Covid-19 reduced the positive effect of face-to-face communication on wellbeing, but surprisingly, people’s own vulnerability did not. Findings show that people strived to remain socially connected while maintaining a physical distance, despite the tangible costs to their wellbeing.

What the researchers say: “As a highly social species, human beings are able to adapt much of their social interactions to online modes, yet our research shows that not all our social needs can be fully met online. We found that ultimately, digital contact does not promote wellbeing in the way that face-to-face does,” the lead author said. “Further to this, young adults reported no more face-to-face contact in relation to their digital contact than older people. Therefore, previous attempts to blame young people’s disregard for social distancing rules appears misplaced. “

“Beyond the Covid-19 pandemic, we need more research to look into the impact that reduced physical interaction can have on young people and the implications of sustained, isolated digital contact,” commented the researchers.

The study is part of a larger international project which includes data from 110 countries.

Face-to-face contact has lots of benefits for social communication, interactions and wellbeing. But at a time when face-to-face contact potentially incurred a threat to the health and safety of ourselves and others, the researchers wanted to know if digital contact could replace its benefits. “Multi-national data show that only face-to-face contact was good for wellbeing,” the researchers explained. “With the potential for further social isolation over the winter period, these results are critically important to guide individual choices and encourage policies to support people’s physical and mental health.”

So, what? We must find a way to control pandemics and at the same time allow for face-to-face meetings and gatherings. Otherwise, our design-spec’s need for in-person social interaction will lead to our annihilation.

For more on in-person socializing click here.