Adriana Sas
Research expert covering the Polish market
Children's internet usage in Poland - statistics & facts
The internet is a multifaceted platform that plays a crucial role in modern society, particularly for entertainment, cultural engagement, and social interaction, especially among teenagers. It allows access to a vast array of cultural content, including music, films, and television shows, and functions as an interactive space where users can engage with various forms of media. The advantages of this digital landscape are numerous; it fosters opportunities for expanding knowledge across many subjects, enables individuals to craft and express their identities, and provides avenues to explore diverse interests and hobbies that might not be otherwise accessible.
Regarding social interaction, YouTube and Facebook have emerged as children's most frequented social networking sites, attracting many young users who upload content, comment on videos, and engage with their favorite creators. When asked about the types of content they share on these platforms, children often refer to a dynamic mix of posts—from personal thoughts and experiences to memes and humorous content. They also enjoy sharing photos, of themselves and their family members, capturing moments that convey intimacy and connection. However, despite the enriching experiences the internet provides, it is essential to recognize and address the potential risks and challenges that come with such unregulated access.
Students are aware of the risks they may face on the internet. However, knowledge about the legality of individual actions on the internet varies. Teenagers are the most common victims of abuse, ridicule, and humiliation. In most homes, no rules limit the duration of internet use or regulate the selection of content that teenagers can access.
The majority of parents believe that there is too much violence, sex, and swearing on the internet. One of the most common risks of internet abuse is the FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) effect, which affects an increasing number of young internet users every year.
Internet as a medium of entertainment
For children, the internet is a primary source of enjoyment and leisure. They often gravitate towards engaging online games that offer immersive experiences where they can compete, collaborate, and connect with peers. Additionally, platforms for streaming music provide an endless playlist of genres and artists, allowing kids to discover and enjoy their favorite tunes. Watching movies and videos through dedicated streaming services or user-generated content on platforms like YouTube has become a staple pastime.Regarding social interaction, YouTube and Facebook have emerged as children's most frequented social networking sites, attracting many young users who upload content, comment on videos, and engage with their favorite creators. When asked about the types of content they share on these platforms, children often refer to a dynamic mix of posts—from personal thoughts and experiences to memes and humorous content. They also enjoy sharing photos, of themselves and their family members, capturing moments that convey intimacy and connection. However, despite the enriching experiences the internet provides, it is essential to recognize and address the potential risks and challenges that come with such unregulated access.
Risks in using the internet
An increasing number of crimes (hacking, intrusions, theft), censorship, limiting access to internet resources, and imposing additional charges for online services dominate among school students' digital fears. The most significant risks from children's use of the internet were inappropriate content (e.g., pornography, violence) and contact with people pretending to be someone else. The biggest threats to children were websites infected with viruses and the negative impact on social relations.Students are aware of the risks they may face on the internet. However, knowledge about the legality of individual actions on the internet varies. Teenagers are the most common victims of abuse, ridicule, and humiliation. In most homes, no rules limit the duration of internet use or regulate the selection of content that teenagers can access.
The majority of parents believe that there is too much violence, sex, and swearing on the internet. One of the most common risks of internet abuse is the FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) effect, which affects an increasing number of young internet users every year.
