Digital vulnerability in young people: gender, age and online participation patterns

ABSTRACT While the Internet is an important social environment, it can also be a devastating place with negative consequences for young people’s psychological well-being. This study examined associations among sociodemographic factors with patterns of participation in online activities such as gambling, betting, online shopping, videogames and eGames. A chi-square-test, Mann-Whitney U-test and multivariate correspondence analysis of an online survey administered to 1500 young people (aged 18 to 35) found gender differences with regard to digital vulnerability. Young women’s digital habits and emotional experience (insecurity, social pressure, helplessness, feeling empty and anxiety) contribute to increased risk. Younger men participate in leisure activities perceived to be less risky (videogames and eGames), while older men have a higher level of participation in activities perceived to be riskier (betting and gambling), which are associated with negative emotions. Younger subjects also experience emotions of insecurity and shame through most of their daily time on social media.