The Rise of Chronic Boredom: A Threat to Wellbeing, Learning, and Behaviour
The Paradox of Boredom in the Digital Age
In a world where access to information and entertainment is easier than ever, it seems paradoxical that boredom is on the rise. Yet, a study by researchers at the University of Toronto reveals that the more time we spend on our digital devices, the more bored we become.
The Study
The study, published in the journal Communications Psychology, is based on data from two major surveys. The first analyzed the responses of 106,784 high school students in the US between 2008 and 2017. The results showed a significant increase in boredom, with a rise of 1.14% per year from 2010.
The second study examined data from 28,269 Chinese students between 2009 and 2020. The results also show an increase in boredom, with the average score rising from 104.49 in 2009 to 118.75 in 2020, according to the Boredom Proneness Scale (BPS).
Hypotheses Explaining the Increase in Boredom
The researchers put forward several hypotheses to explain this increase in boredom. Firstly, digital devices divert our attention: constant notifications and the temptation to check our phones disrupt our concentration, making everyday tasks less engaging.
Furthermore, the overabundance of information online – often fragmented and incoherent – can reduce our sense of coherence and meaning, thus increasing boredom.
Another factor is the increase in the desired level of stimulation: constant exposure to highly stimulating content on social networks and streaming platforms can make other activities seem less exciting or appealing.
The Consequences of Chronic Boredom
"Accumulating evidence shows that digital media use, rather than reducing boredom, causally increases it," the study reads. "In sum, digital media makes it harder for people to maintain focus on daily activities and reduces their ability to stay focused." This may seem paradoxical, given that internet users often turn to their smartphones to avoid boredom.
Combating Chronic Boredom
To combat this trend, the researchers suggest several avenues. Firstly, it’s crucial to develop strategies to maintain attention and motivation, not only at work or school, but also during leisure time. Secondly, it’s important to find alternatives to digital devices to manage boredom more effectively.
Finally, it’s essential to understand and adapt our desire for stimulation to avoid making everyday activities feel unbearably boring.
Conclusion
Chronic boredom can impair wellbeing, learning, and behaviour, and too much use of digital devices, particularly smartphones, is a major culprit. By developing strategies to maintain attention and motivation, finding alternatives to digital devices, and adapting our desire for stimulation, we can combat this trend and lead more fulfilling lives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Why is boredom on the rise despite increased access to information and entertainment?
A: The study suggests that excessive use of digital devices, particularly smartphones, is a major contributor to the rise of boredom.
Q: What are the consequences of chronic boredom?
A: Chronic boredom can impair wellbeing, learning, and behaviour.
Q: How can we combat chronic boredom?
A: The researchers suggest developing strategies to maintain attention and motivation, finding alternatives to digital devices, and adapting our desire for stimulation.