(Press release from youthnet.org) New report reveals young people's 'hybrid lives'
Young people have evolved to communicate in more advanced ways than older generations, living 'hybrid lives' where the internet plays a critical role, says a new report launched at the House of Commons [on October 14, 2009].
The report Life Support: Young people's needs in a digital age looks at how digital communications have impacted on the psychological and neurological behaviour of young people - and the challenge this poses for agencies and organisations who aim to support them.
Undertaken by Professor Michael Hulme [...] the report draws together literature and new research conducted with 994 young people aged 16 to 24 (funded by Nominet Trust). It found that of the young people surveyed:
- 75% said that they couldn't live without the internet
- 45% said that they felt happiest when online
- 32% agreed with the statement: 'I can access all the information I need online, there is no need to speak to a real person about my problems'
- Four in five (82%) said they had used the internet to look for advice and information for themselves and 60% had for other people
- 37% said that they would use the internet to give advice to others on sensitive issues.
Government Advisor on Children and Technology, Professor Tanya Byron, welcomed the report, saying: "This research illustrates the vital role the internet plays in the lives of young people. Far more than just a way to keep in touch – it, and its online population, have become a confidant for young people facing difficult, stressful or confusing times.
The ease of access to opinion, support and advice is of course appealing to a generation who have grown up with immediacy, but it's essential the adults and organisations that provide support to this age group recognise this, and offer services that are easily accessible through the internet."
This report was mentioned in the Click On item on "Digital Natives" (see previous post) in which Michael Hulme appeared with James Clay on the programme. The report itself is available to download as a PDF.
