Generational Variations in Digital Detox Preferences and Psychological Outcome: Insights on Mental Well-Being and Learning Efficacy in the Education Sector

Abstract

This research seeks to demonstrate how preferences in digital detoxification differ from one generation to the other with particular attention on the context of education. It seeks to understand the views, usage and results of the digital detox among various populations including students who belong to the new generation and their educators who belong to older generations. The analysis shows the potential impacts of these preferences on mental health indices, academic achievement as well as on the efficacy of the technologies in learning settings. By recognizing the specific characteristics and strategies of the two generations, this paper provides steps for the development of tailored policies on digital detox for educational institutions with respect to mental health protection and improvement of learning processes The research highlights that while younger students, reliant on digital tools, find it difficult to disconnect, older educators view digital detox as crucial for mental well-being. Key findings reveal that both groups experience mental health improvements—educators report reduced stress, while students show better focus and academic performance after detox. The study also reveals that learning efficacy is also affected differently, where moderate use of technology is shown to be more effective. This is the reason why there is a high demand for particular digital detoxification strategies in the context of education. The results of this study can be utilized to help educational institutions to draft such policies that will help to enrich learning outcomes and also boosts students’ mental health.