Digital well-being

The need for knowledge and norm change on digitalisation and its impact on well-being is crucial, as digitalisation has accelerated many of the challenges facing modern society, such as mental health problems, community fragmentation and polarisation.

Our research is generating knowledge on the impact of digital technologies on social relationships (including relationships, families and friends) and social networks at different stages of life. We collect and analyse Finnish data and gather a wide range of international research. In addition to the research base, we collect other background information, such as national and international initiatives and measures aimed at reducing digital harm. Children and young people are currently at the centre of the international debate. Our aim is to provide research-based recommendations for other life stages.

Based on this, we will create national recommendations on the use of digital media at different stages of life. We work with organisations such as the Finnish Brain Association and the National Institute for Health and Welfare, which complements our perspective and supports a more sustainable change in norms. The Finnish Brain Association has already created a recommendation framework for brain ergonomics, which they are currently piloting in different parts of Finland. Our work complements the recommendations from the perspective of human relations and communities.

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Read more about Social networks, fertility and digital well-being in an ageing Finland on the NetResilience consortium website.

We have also previously carried out the Digital Wellbeing in Families project, which explored the impact of the digital transformation on close relationships and wellbeing. The project, which ended in August 2020, was part of the government’s analysis, assessment and research activities.