Germans predominantly spend their free time online, trading face-to-face interaction for digital media experiences. - Digital leisure time dominates Germans' free time, replacing traditional social interactions
In a representative long-term study conducted with over 3000 people aged 18 and above in June, the focus was on leisure behaviour and satisfaction. While the study did not specify its geographical focus, it provided insights into changes in leisure activities and their impact on social interactions over a 15-year period.
The study reveals a substantial rise in digital leisure activities such as streaming, social media use, online gaming, and mobile entertainment. These activities have become central parts of life globally and in developed countries like Germany. The 2010s saw streaming platforms and social media become mainstream, with billions of people sharing daily life online and gaming evolving into significant social platforms.
Mobile device usage for entertainment, especially gaming, has dramatically increased, with 68% of people reporting playing games on their phones in 2025. Social media usage also remains high and continues growing globally. These increases coincide with technological advances (faster broadband, 4G/5G mobile internet) that have made digital interactions easier and more accessible than ever.
However, the study indicates a decrease in traditional face-to-face social interactions. Weekly meetings with friends at home decreased from 24% in 2010 to 20% in 2025. Weekly family gatherings also decreased, dropping from 22% in 2010 to 11% in 2025, particularly with grandchildren.
Interestingly, television usage decreased by 14 percent over a 15-year period. This decline could be a result of the growing popularity of digital leisure activities.
The study director, Ulrich Reinhardt, stated that reading books is often seen as a conscious alternative to media consumption. He further explained that reading books is often viewed as a ritual or self-care. Despite the rise in digital activities, reading books remained constant at 35 percent, suggesting that it continues to hold a significant place in people's leisure time.
While the study does not provide detailed quantitative findings on the topic for Germany alone, international data and global trends support a shift: more digital leisure time has led to reductions in in-person social activities over about 15 years. For those seeking precise 15-year studies focusing on this topic in Germany, further research in social sciences or German national surveys on media use and social behavior may provide more detailed longitudinal data.
- The substantial rise in digital leisure activities, such as streaming, social media use, online gaming, and mobile entertainment, has led to a shift in community policy, as authorities increasingly focus on promoting vocational training programs to teach skills necessary for the digital age.
- Despite the decrease in traditional face-to-face social interactions, the continued popularity of reading books indicates a need for vocational training in the literary sector, ensuring the production of high-quality literature that appeals to a diverse audience engrossed in digital leisure activities.
