Ethnic Diversity in Digital Experiences among Youth
The widespread use of digital devices, such as smartphones and tablets, presents both opportunities and challenges for parents in the UK. While extensive usage has been linked to poorer mental health, little is known about how adolescent digital device usage varies across ethnic groups and whether this contributes to widening developmental and social disadvantages for minority children. This project seeks to explore the relationship between digital device usage and adolescent well-being across ethnic groups using the youth and household questionnaires in Understanding Society. Specifically, it will address the following questions:
- What is the relationship between digital device usage or screen time and well-being among adolescents from ethnic minority groups compared to those from the majority, ages 10 to 15? How does this vary geographically?
- How are ethnic minority children differentially affected by device usage in domains such as self-esteem, socio-emotional development, and peer relations?
- Do parenting styles across ethnic groups moderate the effects of digital device usage on children’s mental health and well-being?
Understanding disparities in digital device usage is essential for addressing inter-ethnic differences in social outcomes like well-being, child development, and mental health. This research will help policymakers devise targeted in-school interventions or campaigns to procure equal life chances for young people across the UK.
