The effect of different types of internet activity on the religious commitment of American adults.

This study addresses the ongoing debate surrounding the Internet’s role in shaping religious identity, beliefs, and practices. Using data from Wave VI of the Baylor Religion Survey, 2021, I add to previous studies examining Internet use broadly by analyzing the distinct effects of multifaceted Internet activity. I find that increased engagement in online gaming correlates with being an atheist, and decreased religious commitment, both private and public religiosity. Similarly, streaming videos negatively influences religious attendance and scripture reading. However, posting original content to social media has a dual relationship: it increases the likelihood of identifying as religiously unaffiliated, and is positively associated with personal prayer and scripture reading. Using social media sites and video chatting is not related to any outcomes. My findings suggest that the Internet is not a monolithic secularizing force, but rather a multifaceted phenomenon that can either promote secularization or reinforce religious beliefs and practices, which is contingent upon the specific online activities in which individuals engage.