Self-perception in the Digital Age: Exploring the Gap Between Perceived and Actual Internet Usage in Swedish Households
Information
Författare: Nina Persson, Lovisa NilssonBeräknat färdigt: 2025-06
Handledare: Mike Hazas
Handledares företag/institution: IT institutionen; Human Machine Interaction
Ämnesgranskare: Jennifer Andersson
Övrigt: -
Presentationer
Presentation av Nina PerssonPresentationstid: 2025-06-03 10:15
Presentation av Lovisa Nilsson
Presentationstid: 2025-06-03 11:15
Opponenter: Hugo Asztély, Gabriel Martens
Abstract
The increasing use of the internet has been linked to adverse effects on both physical and mental health, as well as environmental impacts. This growing demand will soon account for 21% of global electricity demand, at the same time as the mental health of especially young adults is deteriorating. There are many studies investigating how the Internet affects the environment and human health, but there is a lack of research on to which extent individuals are aware of their Internet usage and its effects. Investigating their awareness is necessary to understand their behaviors and habits, which is fundamental for reducing the negative effects of the Internet. The purpose of this study is, therefore, to explore the discrepancies between users’ perceived and measured Internet usage, the factors contributing to them, and how awareness can help reduce them. To achieve this, questionnaires were conducted with Swedish households to assess how they perceive their Internet usage, followed by a 30-hour measurement of their home internet traffic. Finally, the participants were interviewed to discuss the results and to gain a deeper understanding of their perceptions of their Internet usage. The study identified several discrepancies between perceived and measured Internet usage, particularly in relation to activity types and time of use. These discrepancies appear to stem from differing interpretations of what constitutes Internet usage, potentially influenced by both individual understanding and societal narratives. The findings suggest that increasing personal awareness, especially regarding negative effects on well-being, may help reduce these gaps more effectively than environmental concerns alone. The thesis concludes with a discussion of possible solutions and directions for future research, including the potential of HCI interventions to promote awareness without requiring active user engagement.