The Psychological Basis Behind New Media as an Impetus Behind the Reduction in Physical Activity

The aim of this paper is to attempt to respond to the issue of the relationship between the reduction in movement and the consumption of new media, as well as the psychological grounds behind such behavior. Through the theoretical analysis of relevant literature, the intention was to primarily extend the conceptual understanding of this important topic. First of all, the nature of digital media and the novelty it brings in relation to analogue media is analyzed. The psychological aspects of new media practices were also analyzed similarly. It was concluded that new media do not contribute anything new in the qualitative sense when it comes to their psychological roles, but that its uniqueness lies in the quantity and intensity of the functions which had previously been carried out by other media. Furthermore, it is incorrect to attribute a reduction in movement of the consumer of new media to the nature of the media themselves. Instead, the solution should be found in the nature of the psychological apparatus and functioning of the consumer. Finally, the need for interdisciplinary study of this important topic was pointed out.