current
Declining Trust in Online Benefits
While internet usage remains high, trust in its societal benefits and the balance between online and offline lives is declining, particularly among younger demographics.
Timeframe
near-term
Categories
Subcategories
Impact areas
Detailed Analysis
Although two-thirds of online adults believe the internet's benefits outweigh its risks, this proportion has decreased since 2023. "Two-thirds (67%) of online adults agree that for them the benefits of being online outweigh the risks, a decrease from June 2023 (71%) and January 2024 (68%)." Furthermore, only 40% of adults consider the internet good for society, and younger adults express concerns about maintaining a healthy balance between their online and offline lives.
Context Signals
Strategies for managing online time and wellbeing are becoming more common among adults.
Children's concern about their time spent online increases with age, with worries about mental and physical health effects.
Edge
The development of digital wellbeing tools and educational programs could help users navigate the online world more responsibly.
Platforms may need to implement features that promote healthier online habits and address user concerns about excessive usage.
This trend could lead to a greater emphasis on offline activities and a re-evaluation of the role of the internet in daily life.
