Digital Inequality and Subjective Well-Being

Dear Colleagues, 

Significant differences between individuals still persist in terms of ICT access, skills and competence. These differences are often referred as digital inequalities as they connect with various socio-demographic, psychological and behavioral characteristics. Past research shows not only that digital inequalities affect many activities in daily life, but also that such inequalities contribute to subjective wellbeing.

Recent studies suggest that use of digital technology connects with many positive outcomes. Frequent use of social media can lead to more active social life and familiarity with price comparison websites may increase consumer awareness. At the same time, however, recent findings also point to the possible negative effects of digital technology use on wellbeing. In particular, excessive amounts of use often associates with lower levels of wellbeing. Frequent social media use for instance heightens the risk of exposure to online hate speech. Therefore, the use of digital technology can eventually lead to improved and deteriorated subjective wellbeing. 

Which factors are crucial in understanding the relationship between use of digital technology and subjective wellbeing? How much do the answers vary from one context to another? This Special Issue aims at providing an overview of the most recent studies in digital inequality and its implications for subjective wellbeing. Research articles are invited from both quantitative and qualitative researchers in this field. In particular, cross-national and longitudinal studies are welcomed. 

Prof. Dr. Pekka Räsänen
Guest Editor

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• digital divides
• social media
• ICT skills
• happiness and life satisfaction
• behavioral and attitudinal dimensions of wellbeing
• consumer activities
• hate speech
• socio-demographic differences