Despite constant access to entertainment, boredom is increasing worldwide, especially among young people. Researchers blame digital media for creating overstimulation, fragmented attention and shallow engagement that leaves people unfulfilled.
A new study published in Communications Psychology reveals that boredom levels among U.S. adolescents and Chinese college students have risen significantly in the past 15 years.
One survey of over 100,000 U.S. adolescents found a steady increase in self-reported boredom beginning in 2011, with girls being more affected than boys.
Similarly, Chinese college students scored 14% higher on the Boredom Proneness Scale between 2009 and 2020, indicating more frequent and intense boredom.
Experts say digital media plays a significant role in this trend. Social media provides constant stimulation, but it’s often predictable, fragmented, and shallow, leaving users feeling unsatisfied.
Dr. James Danckert, a cognitive neuroscientist, explained that boredom serves an important purpose, it pushes people to explore the world and seek meaningful experiences. However, scrolling through digital feeds does not meet these needs, making life feel less engaging.
The study’s authors conclude that learning to handle boredom in a meaningful way is more important than ever, especially as digital media continues to dominate daily life.