Young Canadians are increasingly concerned about the time they spend on screens, and are really trying to find more positive ways to spend their time online, according to a new Life Online study from MediaSmarts.

The Ottawa-based non-profit organization surveyed 1,058 young people between ages nine and 17 in fall 2021 to determine their attitudes, behaviors and opinions about the internet, technology and digital media. 

The study found that 44% of Canadian teens are worried about the amount of time they spend on their devices and social networks. But the solution isn’t just for them to unplug—90% of respondents said they use social platforms to connect with friends and family and for general entertainment. Almost half (44%) said they talk to contacts from their social media networks at least daily, and another third (34%) do so at least once a week.

These online communities were lifelines for kids and their families during the pandemic, and they’re not keen to lose that, says Kara Brisson-Boivin, a research director at MediaSmarts. However, she adds that respondents indicated they are starting to use devices in a more “positive” way, for creative, educational and social purposes.

According to the report, 57% of teens use their devices to make videos, art or music. They also ask for advice through their social networks. About 65% talk to other teens about personal problems, and 58% say they’ve consulted an expert or adult through social media at least once. It’s also well worth noting that the study found young people with disabilities are more reliant on these networks—72% of kids in this sub-group said they contact their peers online, compared to 63% of the total sample.

Teens with disabilities rely heavily on digital technology—particularly social media—to access community, support and resources, Brisson-Boivin says. “We know that online communities can be a great source of support for more marginalized youth who might not have good access to in-person support or others nearby who can relate to some very specific experiences,” she adds.

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