Excessive internet use on the rise among Finnish girls

According to the Finnish Institute of Health and Welfare (THL), excessive internet use among Finnish youth has increased between 2017 and 2023. The increase seems to be particularly noticeable among girls.

By “excessive internet use”, THL means use that “takes up a lot of time, is difficult to limit and causes problems for the user”. This can include social media, gaming or watching different types of movies. The Health at School (Hälsa i Skolan) survey was used to measure use.

Excessive internet use has increased among all Finnish adolescents, but it has increased significantly more among girls than boys. For example, the prevalence has more than doubled among girls in upper secondary school and almost doubled among girls in the upper grades of comprehensive school.

– It is difficult to say with certainty why girls’ excessive use of the Internet has increased so much. One possible reason is that girls use social media more, says Olli Kiviruusu, head of research at the Finnish Institute of Health and Welfare TH, in a press release. Similarly, boys are more likely to play online and there may not have been as significant an increase.

“Negative impact on concentration”

The study found a link between excessive Internet use and mental health problems. It also showed that there is an increased risk of sleep disorders and reduced physical activity, as time spent in front of the screen takes time away from these and other important activities. There have also been links between excessive Internet use and difficulties in school, as well as links to difficulties with learning, memory and concentration.

– For example, Internet use can lead to less sleep, and when you are tired, learning and the concentration and attention it requires are affected. On the other hand, those with learning difficulties may become frustrated with their studies and find online environments that allow them to experience success and rewarding activities, says Kiviruusu:

– However, the findings are consistent with the general concern that excessive Internet use can have a negative impact on concentration, attention, and therefore learning.