A new study out from eMarketer confirms that attention spans are making U.S. adults turn to a second screen, even when they’re already watching a first one.
The Stats
The report, “US Simultaneous Media Users: eMarketer’s Estimates for 2017,” estimates 177.7 million adults will regularly use another device while watching TV in 2017, which is an increase of 5.1 percent over the previous year. Around 162.6 million of those second-screeners will be using a smartphone, the secondary device of choice. But more important than our attention spans is the impact. After all, what’s the harm to shortening our attention spans if the entire online world we live in moves just as quickly? We’re simply adapting to fit it. “Every month, 46.2 million adults will access at least some digital content that is related to what they are watching on TV. A much larger group, 131.5 million, will look only at unrelated content. These individuals are often texting, using social media or shopping and buying as they watch TV.”
That Screentime Isn’t Great for Sleep
I know, I know, we talk about sleep a lot here. But it’s an essential element in your life, particularly given how much of your life is spent snoozing. And staring at screens all day can impact getting your nightly seven hours. Here’s how a recent academic review put it. So the attention span isn’t the problem, the smartphone that you switch to is. Try getting into screen-less activities, from podcasts to exercise to good old physical books — at least right before bed. Read more about how to stay healthy and modern here at TechCo
