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New research from the University of Sussex examining how people spend their leisure time, has revealed that scrolling social media is the activity that brings us the least joy – despite being the one people in engage in most often.

As debate continues over the impact of social media use and wellbeing, new research has found that, from a list of 21 leisure pursuits, scrolling on social media was the third most common overall, and the one participants most frequently engaged with. However, it was rated the lowest for enjoyment. This stark contrast highlights a disconnect between how we choose to spend our leisure hours and what most effectively supports our wellbeing.

According to Professor Robin Banerjee of the University of Sussex who led this work: “The study provides compelling evidence that the key to psychological fulfilment lies in being more intentional with our leisure time. These findings highlight the importance of dedicating time to hobbies that are emotionally rewarding and socially enriching, offering a powerful blueprint for maximising personal wellbeing. It is also striking to see the activity we do with the most frequency, social media scrolling, is the activity we enjoy least, suggesting that if we are led by what intrinsically motivates us as opposed to algorithms we can experience more joy and immersion.

“At a time when there is growing debate about young people’s relationship with social media, our findings underline the importance of enabling people of all ages to engage in activities that promote joy, mental health, and wellbeing.”

Listening to music topped the list for pleasure, receiving an average joy score of 6.16 out of 7 (rated from 1=not at all joyful, to 7= extremely joyful).Playing a musical instrument ranked second (6.04 out of 7), despite being one of our least frequent activities. Immersing ourselves in a book came third (6 out of 7), followed by crafting and volunteering in community engagement; something we infrequently do but brings a high level of satisfaction.

The study found that ‘intrinsic motivations’ – those motivated by inherent satisfaction, personal growth or internal fulfilment – were more strongly correlated with joy than motivations which were tied to external validation, material rewards or the opinions of others. The researchers also found that talking more with others about personal interests was associated with lower mental health difficulties, as well as greater wellbeing and generalised trust in others. The study also shows a real link between joy, intrinsic motivation, flow, and immersion.

The survey of 2,182 respondents from across the UK, provided by global research marketplace Cint, was conducted by psychologists from the University of Sussex and commissioned by Immediate, home to trusted brands people love, including Radio Times and Good Food.

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