An interpretative phenomenological analysis of young Jewish adults’ experience of having a digital detox during Shabbat

Online media saves time, increases leisure time and offers users flexibility and control (Wajcman, 2016). However, experiencing excessive technology use is common among young people, and concerns about its impact are shared by individuals and institutions (Syvertsen, 2020). The growing popularity of digital detox as a remedy for excessive digital use is evident. Strategies to address this issue include the use of usage-tracking apps and self-control tools (Global Mobile OS Market Share 2023 | Statista, 2023), as well as engaging in digital retreats (Stäheli & Stoltenberg, 2022). This study aimed to explore the experience of combining technology use with a weekly digital detox for 25 hours every Shabbat, using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). The analysis revealed five Group Experiential Themes and eighteen sub-themes that are presented as the main findings. The analysis explores the effects of digital detox on relationships, the manifestation of anxiety during this period, and, conversely, the improvement of well-being. The themes also highlight how time is experienced during the digital detox on Shabbat and how feelings of authenticity emerge on Shabbat in contrast to weekdays where technology is present. Addictive behaviours towards technology are examined, as well as themes related to activities and routines during Shabbat. It was also found that only half the participants were able to maintain their digital detox while growing up, signifying a maturation process taking place across time and parental influence is discussed with this in mind. The implications of these findings are explored in relation to clinical practice and for society, and further areas of study in this area are identified.