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TNS EXPRESS FACTS: DOES TECHNOLOGY REDUCE THE AMOUNT OF TIME SPENT WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS?

July 29th, 2010

Technology and Family Time

Question: Does technology reduce the amount of time spent with family and friends?
(Monday, July 19th, 2010)

We all know that technology plays a vital role in our lives today. But at what social cost?

TNS Omnibus Express asked 1,000 respondents whether technology has led them to spend less time with their friends and family. The answer was a resounding YES: by 64% of respondents.

Women seem to be feeling this slightly more than the men with 69% of the women saying yes and only 60% of the men agreeing with them.

It doesn't seem to matter if you have children or not: with 68% of households with children reporting an effect and 63% of household without children are reporting an effect.

The same holds true for marriage: 63% of married respondents report less time spent and 65% of unmarried households report the same.

Looking at race, the White and Hispanic race showed a 65 and 67% effect, respecitvely, while African Americans reported a 56% effect.



In conclusion, the report shows that across the board, no matter what your gender, race, geographic region or even income, over half of the respondents feel that the technology -- for all of its benefits and the surprising ability to keep more connected with a broader social group than ever before -- also means spending less actual in-person time with friends and family.

For more information on responses or to find out fast what your company needs to know, contact Jane Cutler-Meyer or view the Omnibus Express Overview.

About TNS Express Facts
Express Facts is designed to be an easy-to-read, central resource to gain a "quick pulse" of the behaviors and attitudes of consumers. The information covers various issues and trends across many industries. Powered by the TNS Express Omnibus, 1,000 respondents aross the United States are invited to answer a "Quick Question" each week.