Research from Ofcom, the UK’s media regulator, has found that young people in the UK spend three hours online every day on average, mostly using social media. The Government recently announced a ban, meaning that from spring 2027 under-16s will not have access to most of these apps. Many young people will have more free time but some have suggested they might get bored. Research shows that being bored can affect us in good and bad ways. Bridget Phillipson, who was Education Secretary when the ban was announced, said being bored is “an important part of growing up”. However, she also said being bored is more difficult for children from families with less money or without access to activities nearby. What do you think? Is it ever good to be bored?
Yes – being bored can be good for you
Scientists say feeling bored sometimes can help you discover more about yourself. Professor Arthur Brooks, from Harvard University, US, says boredom lets the brain switch into a resting pattern, giving you time to think and reflect. Letting your mind wander can also boost creativity by giving you space to consider new ideas. In 2012, researchers at the University of California, US, found that students who daydreamed or completed a boring task scored better in creativity tests than those who had just finished a difficult task. A psychologist (expert in thoughts and feelings) called John Eastwood said people who are never bored may begin to crave constant stimulation, making it harder for them to enjoy quiet moments.
No – being bored is bad for you
Experts say extreme boredom can make some people more likely to take risks or behave dangerously to make life more interesting. In 2014, a team at the University of Virginia, US, found that almost half of people would rather give themselves an electric shock than sit alone doing nothing. A 2023 study by the University of Nairobi, Kenya, found that long periods of boredom can make anxious thoughts worse by allowing people to dwell on them. Boredom also affects physical health. A 2010 study of adult office workers in London found being bored in your job for a long time can even shorten your life. This could be related to what people do when they’re bored, like eating too much or taking up harmful habits.
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