Under-24’s are in touch 23 hours a day

Young people are clocking up around 23 hours a day texting, emailing and using social networks, according to a new study by OTX Research.

The study found that young people aged between 12-24 engaged in up to five activities simultaneously, including text messaging, instant messaging, emailing, using Skype and social networking.

Young people’s favourite activities are predominantly offline, despite the rise and wide use of digital media and technology, according to OTX.

Graham Saxton, managing director of media and entertainment insights at OTX, said: “Many commentators have reasoned that young people’s obsession with digital is due to a fascination with the technology and gadgets, when in fact they’re only interested in these as a means to an end.

“The traditional world remains the prime destination for meeting friends and entertainment, and real, offline destinations and pastimes still rate higher than the online space,” he added.

The research was carried out in conjunction with Nokia, MTV Networks, Twentieth Century Fox, Fox Mobile Group and Channel 4.