This report presents the first comprehensive, in-depth evaluation of the digital lives and psychological well-being of young people in Malta. Commissioned by the Office of the Commissioner for Children in collaboration with the Faculty for Social Wellbeing (University of Malta) and the Ministry for Social Policy and Children's Rights, the study surveyed approximately 2,000 children aged 7 to 15 across Malta and Gozo. 89% of children access the internet daily. Daily use scales steeply with age, moving from 76.5% among 7–10-year-olds to 97.1% among 13–15-year-olds.
The study reveals that nearly all Maltese youth access the internet daily, mainly via smartphones. However, 70% report social media dependence, leading to sleep loss, disrupted schoolwork, and reduced physical activity. Key risks include exposure to violent/sexual content, unmonitored use, and online interaction with unknown adults.
Methodology
The study used a mixed-methods research design to evaluate children's digital habits and well-being. Nearly 2,000 children aged 7 to 15 across state, church, and independent schools in Malta and Gozo participated. A comprehensive primary survey questionnaire was administered, developed in consultation with the Children's Advisory Board (CAB) to ensure a child-centred and age-appropriate design.
Country or region of researched population
Malta
Citation
Attard, R., Catania, M., Vella, G., & Camilleri, L. (2025). Children and the impact of technology on their wellbeing. Ministry for Social Policy and Children's Rights & the Office of the Commissioner for Children.
Record created:
30 July 2026
This report presents the first comprehensive, in-depth evaluation of the digital lives and psychological well-being of young people in Malta. Commissioned by the Office of the Commissioner for Children in collaboration with the Faculty for Social Wellbeing (University of Malta) and the Ministry for Social Policy and Children's Rights, the study surveyed approximately 2,000 children aged 7 to 15 across Malta and Gozo. 89% of children access the internet daily. Daily use scales steeply with age, moving from 76.5% among 7–10-year-olds to 97.1% among 13–15-year-olds.
The study reveals that nearly all Maltese youth access the internet daily, mainly via smartphones. However, 70% report social media dependence, leading to sleep loss, disrupted schoolwork, and reduced physical activity. Key risks include exposure to violent/sexual content, unmonitored use, and online interaction with unknown adults.
Methodology
The study used a mixed-methods research design to evaluate children's digital habits and well-being. Nearly 2,000 children aged 7 to 15 across state, church, and independent schools in Malta and Gozo participated. A comprehensive primary survey questionnaire was administered, developed in consultation with the Children's Advisory Board (CAB) to ensure a child-centred and age-appropriate design.
Country or region of researched population
Malta
Citation
Attard, R., Catania, M., Vella, G., & Camilleri, L. (2025). Children and the impact of technology on their wellbeing. Ministry for Social Policy and Children's Rights & the Office of the Commissioner for Children.
Record created:
30 July 2026- adolescence digital well-being social media online safety
