A new study reveals just how digitally dependent most New Zealanders are now. Disconnecting requires conscious effort – and it could even cost you money. In an age when connectivity is constant, many New Zealanders find it hard to unplug from the internet.
Despite a desire to switch off, the reality of disconnecting is challenging . Soon it might even come at a cost. These were key findings from the first-ever internet unplugging study in Aotearoa New Zealand.
Around the world, and in New Zealand, there is increasing interest in disconnecting. School phone bans, calls for a right to disconnect from work, and the proliferation of screen-time apps all speak to a collective concern about how constantly connected we are. Spending time offline and using strategies to help manage screen time are being recognised as critical skills.
Learning them may benefit wellbeing and productivity, and help to set boundaries around social media use..