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Web-browsing patterns reflect and shape mood and mental health

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  • Christopher A. Kelly

    (University College London
    Max Planck University College London Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research
    Massachusetts Institute of Technology
    Stanford University)

  • Tali Sharot

    (University College London
    Max Planck University College London Centre for Computational Psychiatry and Ageing Research
    Massachusetts Institute of Technology)

Abstract

Humans spend on average 6.5 hours a day online. A large portion of that time is dedicated to information-seeking. How does this activity impact mental health? We assess this over four studies (n = 1,145). We reveal that the valence of information sought affects mental health, which in turn influences the valence of information sought, forming a self-reinforcing loop. We quantified the valence of text on webpages participants chose to browse using natural language processing and found that browsing more negative information was associated with worse mental health and mood. By manipulating the webpages browsed and measuring mood and vice versa, we show that the relationship is causal and bidirectional. Finally, we developed an intervention that altered web-browsing patterns in a manner that improved mood. Together, the findings suggest that the information sought reflects mental state and shapes it, creating a loop that may perpetuate mental health problems. The results also provide a potential method for assessing and enhancing welfare in the digital age.

Suggested Citation

  • Christopher A. Kelly & Tali Sharot, 2025. "Web-browsing patterns reflect and shape mood and mental health," Nature Human Behaviour, Nature, vol. 9(1), pages 133-146, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:nathum:v:9:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1038_s41562-024-02065-6
    DOI: 10.1038/s41562-024-02065-6
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    References listed on IDEAS

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