Questões sobre Interpretação de texto | Reading comprehension

        Many believe the Internet negatively affects mental health, but a new study challenges this assumption. Conducted by Dr. Matti Vuorre and his team at Tilburg University and published in Technology, Mind, and Behavior magazine, the study analyzed data from more than two million people across 168 countries. The findings suggest that those who have Internet access and actively use it report higher well-being across areas like life satisfaction, social life, and economic stability. Remarkably, 85% of the data analyses revealed that Internet users generally experience greater well-being than non-users. Dr. Vuorre emphasized that although Internet use is often blamed for mental health issues, this large-scale study suggests a positive correlation between access to the Internet and improved well-being.

         The study used Gallup World Poll data to assess well-being, looking at whether Internet access was associated with positive outcomes on a global scale. Dr. Vuorre acknowledged the complexity of analyzing such extensive data, so his team conducted tens of thousands of statistical tests to ensure reliability. While the study adjusts for factors like income and access to healthcare, which can independently boost well-being, Internet access still appeared to make a positive difference. However, Dr. Markus Appel, a psychology professor not involved in the study, noted that Internet use’s impact on well-being may vary greatly based on individual use. Appel pointed out that the Internet itself is not inherently good or bad for mental health; rather, its effects depend on how people choose to use it.

         The study calls for a nuanced view of Internet use. Dr. Vuorre emphasized that the Internet supports various activities, from online banking and shopping to social interactions and news consumption, each with unique effects on well-being. Yet, the rapid shift to digital life leaves limited time to study these impacts fully. Vuorre noted that caution is warranted in framing policies around Internet use. Although some research highlights negative effects of social media, especially for younger people, this study suggests that Internet access may be a valuable resource, enhancing certain aspects of well-being worldwide.

Internet:<edition.cnn.com>  (adapted).

        Girls play outside in nature less than boys do, even at the age of two, according to the first national survey of play among preschool-age children in Britain. While researchers expect to see older children socialised to particular gender roles, they were shocked to see similar patterns of behaviour starting to emerge at such a young age. They fear it could have long-term implications for girls’ health, as girls are less physically active as they get older and are more likely than boys to have difficulties with their mental health.

         The study also found that preschool-age children from a minority ethnic background play less outdoors than their white counterparts, and children in urban areas play less outdoors than those in rural areas. “The results highlight inequalities in play even in the youngest age group, which may exacerbate existing inequalities in health,” the report concluded.

         The research surveyed more than 1,100 parents and carers of children aged two, three and four. They found that preschool children spent approximately four hours a day at play, of which one hour and 45 minutes was spent playing outdoors, mainly in back gardens at home. Away from home, children played in playgrounds and green spaces, with the most adventurous play usually associated with indoor play centres.

         “The popularity of these play centers is growing,” the report said. “This may be driven by indoor play centres providing adventurous play experiences that overcome some of the barriers to outdoor adventurous play such as traffic, weather and safety concerns.”

Sally Weale. Girls play outside less than boys even at two years old, UK survey reveals.

In: The Guardian. Internet:<theguardian.com>  (adapted).