Study: Broadband users less likely to leave labor force

Americans who use the Internet are less likely to become discouraged and drop out of the labor force, according to a study from the free-market think tank Phoenix Center.

Last year researchers found broadband users are 50 percent less likely to give up the job search despite long-term unemployment, while dial-up users are 30 percent less likely to become discouraged. By examining data from 2009 the researchers were able to confirm their earlier findings showing access to the Web, whether at home or through shared public computers, prevents workers from abandoning their search for a new job. "It appears that all forms of Internet use, including dial-up and public shared use, are important tools for job search, reducing discouragement by a sizable and statistically significant amount," wrote Phoenix Center chief economist Dr. George Ford.

(Aug 18)