“Man tror att det är gratis men egentligen betalar man med sin data” : En intervjustudie om upplevelser av digital detox

This study examines the motivations and experiences of individuals committed to a digital detox and explores the impact on their relationships with digital technology and social norms. Using a qualitative method, semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants who temporarily disconnected from major social media platforms such as Snapchat, Instagram, Facebook and TikTok. The study applies theories of media ecology and McLuhan’s concepts of “the medium is the message” to analyze how digital detox influences participants perceptions of social interactions, time and space. The results reveal that while the digital detox participants improved productivity, mental well-being and increased personal connections. It also highlights the tension between societal norms of constant connectivity and individual desires for autonomy. Participants reported challenges breaking habitual media use and reflected critically on their digital dependency, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies to balance digital engagement. Future research should focus on the long-term sustainability of these changes and the influence of demographic and psychological factors on digital detox experiences.