Survey: Americans spend 23 hours a week online/social media

DESOTO, Kan., June 29 (UPI) -- U.S. adults spend an average of 23 hours a week communicating via technology or social media among 275 "online connections," a survey indicates.

A survey, commissioned by Desoto, Kan., disposable tableware maker Chinet, found younger respondents spend 28 hours in an average week online or using social media, or 8 full hours more than those age 35-64.

The survey also found 50 percent of U.S. adults said they played games with others online at least once a week, but of all of their digital friends, only 11 percent actually saw any of their online friends in person over the past three months.

However, 60 percent of the total time spent connecting with loved ones was done via technology or social media.

When asked what they missed most from social interaction occurring digitally, 86 percent said they missed spending time together that is meaningful, followed by 84 percent who missed feeling warmth and the satisfaction after being with people they enjoy.

Nearly 75 percent said they were interested in hosting or attending more in-person get-togethers over the next year.

However, more than 90 percent of people indicated they use digital communication more often for to ask someone on a date, play a board game or get advice.

The survey was conducted by Buntin Group and Survey Sampling International. No further survey details were provided.