A comprehensive new study from the University of Sussex has uncovered a troubling paradox in British leisure habits, revealing that browsing social media or "doomscrolling" ranks as the nation's least enjoyable pastime despite being the activity people engage in most frequently.
The Joy Deficit in Digital Habits
Researchers surveyed 2,182 people from across the United Kingdom, presenting them with a list of 21 common leisure pursuits and asking detailed questions about both participation frequency and emotional rewards. The findings present a stark contrast between what Britons do most often and what actually brings them genuine satisfaction.
Social media scrolling emerged as the clear leader in frequency but ranked dead last in enjoyment, creating what psychologists describe as a "digital joy deficit" in contemporary British life.
What Actually Brings Britons Joy
In sharp contrast to the empty scrolling habit, the study identified several activities that deliver substantial emotional rewards:
- Listening to music topped the enjoyment scale with an average joy score of 6.16 out of 7
- Playing a musical instrument secured second place for emotional satisfaction
- Reading followed closely behind as another highly rewarding activity
- Crafting and volunteering completed the top five most joyful pursuits
Professor Robin Banerjee, the study's lead researcher, emphasised the significance of these findings: "The study provides compelling evidence that an important key to psychological fulfilment and wellbeing could lie in being more intentional with our leisure time."
The Psychological Cost of Doomscrolling
Previous research has consistently identified negative psychological impacts associated with excessive social media scrolling. A study published in the Journal of Computers in Human Behaviour Reports established clear connections between 'doomscrolling' and heightened feelings of existential anxiety, despair, distrust, and suspicion of others.
"These findings highlight the importance of dedicating time to hobbies that are emotionally rewarding and socially enriching," Professor Banerjee explained. "It is also striking to see the activity we do with the most frequency, social media scrolling, is the activity that brings us least joy, suggesting that if we are led by what intrinsically motivates us as opposed to algorithms, we can move towards experiencing more joy in our lives."
Government Response and Policy Considerations
The research emerges at a crucial moment in the national conversation about digital wellbeing, coinciding with government announcements about potential social media restrictions for younger users. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall has confirmed that the government is considering an Australian-style ban on social media for under-16s.
In a statement to the Commons, Ms Kendall outlined the scope of the upcoming consultation: "I can tell the House we will bring forward a swift three-month consultation on further measures to keep children safe online. The consultation will include a range of other options too, such as whether there should be curfews overnight, breaks to stop excessive use or doom-scrolling, how we ensure more rigorous enforcement of existing laws around age verification and action to address concerns about the use of VPNs to get around important protections."
A Blueprint for Better Wellbeing
Professor Banerjee stressed the broader implications of the research for public health policy: "At a time when there is growing debate about young people's relationship with social media, our findings underline the importance of enabling people of all ages to engage in activities that promote joy, mental health, and wellbeing."
The study offers what researchers describe as "a powerful blueprint for maximising personal wellbeing" by encouraging more mindful engagement with leisure activities that provide genuine emotional rewards rather than passive consumption of algorithm-driven content.
As Britain grapples with increasing concerns about digital addiction and mental health impacts, this research provides crucial evidence about the disconnect between our most frequent habits and what actually contributes to psychological fulfilment.
