A new study has revealed that scrolling social media, or 'doomscrolling', is the most frequent leisure activity among Britons, yet it is also ranked as the least enjoyable. Researchers from the University of Sussex surveyed over 2,000 people across the UK, asking them about 21 common pastimes and how often they engaged in them, as well as how much joy they derived from each.
Listening to music topped the list for most joyful activity, scoring an average of 6.16 out of 7. Playing a musical instrument came second, followed by reading, crafting, and volunteering. In contrast, social media scrolling was the most common activity but received the lowest joy rating.
Lead researcher Robin Banerjee said: 'The study provides compelling evidence that an important key to psychological fulfilment and wellbeing could lie in being more intentional with our leisure time.' He added: '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.'
Previous research has linked doomscrolling to existential anxiety, despair, and distrust. The findings come as the government considers an Australian-style ban on social media for under-16s, with technology secretary Liz Kendall announcing a consultation that may include overnight curfews and breaks to stop excessive use or doomscrolling.
