October 12, 2001 | Robert Kraut, Sara Kiesler, Bonka Boneva, Jonathon Cummings, Vicki Helgeson, and Anne Crawford
The article revisits the "Internet Paradox," which initially reported negative effects of Internet use on social involvement and psychological well-being among new users in 1995-1996. A 3-year follow-up of 208 respondents found that these negative effects dissipated, with most negative outcomes disappearing except for increased stress. A longitudinal survey in 1998-1999 of 406 new computer and television purchasers showed generally positive effects of Internet use on communication, social involvement, and well-being. However, the impact varied based on individual differences: extraverts and those with more social support benefited more, while introverts and those with less support experienced worse outcomes. The study suggests that the Internet's effects depend on how people use it and the quality of their online relationships, rather than just the quantity of usage. The findings highlight the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind the Internet's impact and the need for longitudinal designs to track changes over time.The article revisits the "Internet Paradox," which initially reported negative effects of Internet use on social involvement and psychological well-being among new users in 1995-1996. A 3-year follow-up of 208 respondents found that these negative effects dissipated, with most negative outcomes disappearing except for increased stress. A longitudinal survey in 1998-1999 of 406 new computer and television purchasers showed generally positive effects of Internet use on communication, social involvement, and well-being. However, the impact varied based on individual differences: extraverts and those with more social support benefited more, while introverts and those with less support experienced worse outcomes. The study suggests that the Internet's effects depend on how people use it and the quality of their online relationships, rather than just the quantity of usage. The findings highlight the importance of understanding the mechanisms behind the Internet's impact and the need for longitudinal designs to track changes over time.