Connecting with others in person boosts children's wellbeing

What the research found

A 2022 systematic review of adolescent relationships found that sharing personal thoughts and feelings is linked to better relationship quality and wellbeing. Online sharing seemed less fulfilling than face-to-face sharing. Some teens, such as highly anxious ones and boys aged 12 to 13, seemed to benefit from starting online before moving to in-person contact.

A 2018 US survey of 1.1 million students in Years 8, 10 and 12, run from 1991 to 2016, found that teens who spent more time on screens and less on in-person social interaction, sport and other offline activities had lower wellbeing. Changes in activities generally came before drops in wellbeing. Teens who used electronic communication a little were the happiest.

Parenting guidance describes friendships as especially important for teenagers, who spend more time with friends than family. It notes that arguments and fallings out with friends can make life feel miserable and stressful.

What it doesn’t mean

• These studies mostly show a link, not proof. Teens who feel good may also seek out more face-to-face time. No trials in the evidence directly test whether more in-person time lifts children's wellbeing.
• The research is mainly about teenagers, so it says little about younger children. In-person contact is not always positive, and online contact can help some anxious teens.
• If your child seems persistently sad, anxious or withdrawn, or is struggling with friendships, talk to your GP or child health nurse.