Digital Media Usage and Individual Well-being: Evidence from the China Family Panel Survey

Abstract

Previous studies rarely explored either the non-linear effect of time or the mechanism of purpose and reference as contextual factors that affect individual well-being. This study was conducted to examine the relationship between digital media usage and the levels of subjective well-being by using data from the China Family Panel Studies. The multiple linear regression model was applied to this research. The results showed screen time within 18 hours per week had a positive impact on subjective well-being for the sample (n = 8,531). Any screen time over 18 hours per week had a negative impact. Digital media usage for work and social activities was found to be related to subjective well-being (p < 0.05). The usage for consumption was associated with lower levels of subjective well-being (p < 0.05). The effect of digital media on individual well-being is dependent on time control, the gratification of personalized needs in the process of use, and the reference frame in the pseudo environment.