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Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention

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A special issue of Behavioral Sciences (ISSN 2076-328X). This special issue belongs to the section "Health Psychology".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (31 October 2025) | Viewed by 58647

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Special Issue Editors

Prof. Dr. Ana León Mejía

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Guest Editor

Department of Sociology and Communication, University of Salamanca, 37008 Salamanca, Spain
Interests: education; psychology; social sciences; educational innovation

Dr. Roberto Sánchez-Cabrero

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Guest Editor

Department of Evolutive and Education Psychology, Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, 28049 Madrid, Spain
Interests: education; psychology; social sciences; educational innovation
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Dear Colleagues,

The rapid proliferation of digital technologies and social media platforms has fundamentally transformed the way individuals interact, communicate, and engage with the world. While these advancements offer significant benefits, they also present new challenges, particularly in the realms of social interaction and health impact. Excessive or problematic use of the internet, mobiles, and social media has been linked to various negative health outcomes, including anxiety, depression, suicidal ideation, sleep disturbances, eating disorders, phobias, addictions, and social isolation, to mention just a few.

Furthermore, excessive mobile and screen use has been associated with cognitive impairments, attention deficits, and disruptions in executive functions. Prolonged exposure to screens can lead to difficulties in concentrating, memory problems, and a reduced ability to perform complex tasks. These cognitive and attentional issues can significantly impact academic performance, work efficiency, and overall mental wellbeing.

Additionally, the pervasive use of mobile devices and screens can interfere with parenting practices and attachment styles. Parents who are frequently engaged with their devices may exhibit less responsive and attentive caregiving, which can affect the development of secure attachment in children. This can lead to issues in emotional regulation, social competence, and overall child development.

Moreover, the impact of internet and social media use can vary significantly across genders and different demographic groups, including immigrants, individuals with disabilities, and those with neurodivergent or gifted profiles. These groups may face unique challenges and vulnerabilities online, such as higher risks of cyberbullying and social isolation. Gender differences also play a fundamental role, with studies indicating that females might be more susceptible to issues related to body image, social comparison, and nomophobia, while males might be more prone to engaging in risky online behaviors. These disparities highlight the need for tailored interventions that consider the diverse experiences and needs of different populations.

There is a pressing need for research that not only explores the adverse effects of these phenomena but also identifies and evaluates innovative approaches to mitigate their impact, focusing on preventive strategies and psychoeducational interventions.

Call for Contributions: We invite original research articles and reviews on these topics:

Impact of problematic internet/mobile use, as widely understood, on wellbeing and behavior.

Psychological, cognitive, emotional, and physical consequences of problems such as cyberbullying, cyberstalking, grooming, phubbing, parental phubbing, internet addiction and problematic use, nomophobia, FOMO, online disinhibition, cyberchondria, social media fatigue, screen dependency, online gambling, gaming disorders, online shopping, information overload, sleep disorders, digital eye strain, obsession with selfies and body image, and participation in dangerous viral challenges;
Social, demographic, and environmental factors that exacerbate these issues or explore epigenetic connections;
Prevalence and psychological impact on different populations, and longitudinal studies on mental health, cognition, and behavior.

Effective intervention and prevention strategies:

Reviews and analyses of current intervention programs and successful case studies and best practices in prevention and intervention;
Proposals for targeted interventions addressing specific problematic behaviors;
Research on the role of schools, parents, and communities in mitigating the effects of cyberbullying.

By highlighting innovative intervention and prevention strategies, we aim to contribute to the development of more effective solutions that can enhance individual wellbeing and create safer digital environments.

Prof. Dr. Ana León Mejía
Dr. Roberto Sánchez-Cabrero
Guest Editors

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Keywords

cyberbullying and other forms of online violence
social media-related problems
problematic internet use and related disorders
problematic mobile use and related disorders
prevention strategies and interventions
health and wellbeing
cognitive and behavioral issues

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Published Papers (14 papers)

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22 pages, 492 KB

Open AccessArticle

Evolution of Problematic Mobile Phone Use in the Spanish Population over the Last Decade

by Jose de-Sola, Joan I. Mestre-Pintó, Victor J. Villanueva-Blasco, Hernán Talledo, Antonia Serrano, Gabriel Rubio and Fernando Rodríguez de Fonseca

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 8; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010008 - 19 Dec 2025

Viewed by 222

Abstract

This study assessed problematic mobile phone use in the Spanish population between 2014 and 2025 using the Mobile Phone Problematic Use Scale (MPPUS) and the Mobile Phone Addiction Craving Scale (MPACS). Two online surveys were conducted in 2018 (n = 1612) and 2024 (n = 2001) across Spain’s 17 autonomous communities, with analyses by gender, age, occupation, education level, and population size. Data were compared with a 2014 baseline study (n = 1126). The prevalence of problematic mobile phone use declined slightly from 5.1% in 2014 to 4.8% in 2018 and 3.2% in 2024. Users reporting difficulties controlling their phone use (problematic and at-risk users) also decreased from 20.5% in 2014 to 18.8% in 2024. However, the severity of problematic use increased over the decade, as reflected by rising MPACS scores among problematic users. Major factors associated with problematic use included hours of daily use, age (especially under 35 years), anxiety symptoms, and videogaming, while gender and alcohol consumption showed minor influence. Despite the slight reduction in prevalence, the growing intensity of problematic use highlights its persistence as a public health concern among young adults, underscoring the need for preventive and therapeutic interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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23 pages, 1220 KB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Relationship Between Electronic Device Use and Psychological Dimensions of Procrastination in University Students

by María Salguero-Pazos and Salvador Reyes-de-Cózar

Behav. Sci. 2026, 16(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs16010006 - 19 Dec 2025

Viewed by 81

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between electronic device use and psychological dimensions of procrastination in university students. The main objectives were to identify screen usage habits, explore their association with key psychological factors, and determine whether these factors predict perceived procrastination. An ad hoc instrument and descriptive, correlational, and regression techniques were used for data analysis of a sample of 924 Spanish university students. From this sample, a target subsample of 386 students who reported high levels of procrastination was selected to analyse screen-use patterns and their links with procrastination dimensions. In contrast, the full sample was used to estimate the predictive regression models. Results showed high screen use among students, with 20% potentially at risk for problematic use. High screen use correlated with lower self-regulation, self-efficacy, and self-esteem, and higher anxiety. Conversely, higher self-regulation and self-efficacy were linked to more motivation, better self-esteem, and less anxiety. Regression results indicated that screen time, self-regulation, and self-efficacy significantly predict procrastination levels. These findings suggest that psychological factors play a key role in how screen use relates to procrastination. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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13 pages, 825 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Relationship Between TikTok Usage and Executive Function Is Mediated by Problematic Social Media Use

by Jessica Golding, Anya Rallison, Kyra Zhang, Aisha Awan, Francisco Romero, Jillia Lacbain, Samuel Lee, Sahar Momand, Lilian Azer and Weiwei Zhang

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1748; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121748 - 18 Dec 2025

Viewed by 749

Abstract

Social media is deeply integrated into life, offering new opportunities for learning and communication. However, excessive use has been linked to negative effects on well-being and cognitive functions. A rapidly growing platform, TikTok has been a focal point of controversy due to concerns over its short-form content. The present study investigates the relationship between TikTok usage, problematic social media use (PSMU), and executive function (EF) to distinguish platform-specific features from broader patterns of problematic use. A survey conducted with 346 college students measured EF, TikTok use intensity, PSMU, and mental health variables. The findings indicate that while PSMU and TikTok use correlate with EF dysfunction, TikTok use is not a significant predictor when PSMU and mental health factors are statistically accounted for. Mediation analysis suggests that PSMU mediates the relationship between TikTok use and EF impairment, indicating that problematic media use—rather than platform-specific characteristics—relates to poor cognition connected to social media. These results contribute to the growing literature on digital media’s cognitive effects, underscoring the importance of addressing problematic usage patterns rather than focusing on individual platforms. Additionally, the association of PSMU with EF impairments and poor mental health reinforces the need for interventions targeting excessive social media engagement. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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16 pages, 986 KB

Open AccessArticle

Hidden Markov Trajectories of Early-Adolescent Media Overdependence and Machine Learning Prediction of High-Risk Maintenance from Early Childhood and Lower Elementary Predictors

by Eun-Kyoung Goh and Juyoun Kyun

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1725; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121725 - 12 Dec 2025

Viewed by 220

Abstract

Early adolescence is a sensitive period for digital media overdependence; however, persistent high-risk patterns remain poorly understood. Using data from the 2008 birth panel of the Panel Study on Korean Children (n = 1354), we examined predictors measured from early childhood to Grades 1–2 (2014–2016) and modeled digital media overdependence from Grades 3 to 6 (2017–2020). Hidden Markov Models (HMMs) were used to identify developmental trajectories, and machine learning models characterized risk signals using SHAP-informed feature importance. Five trajectories emerged, including one subgroup that maintained persistently high risk. The predictive model showed good discriminative performance (strong predictive performance [Receiver Operating Characteristic Area Under the Curve (ROC AUC) = 0.84]). Executive function difficulties in Grade 1 and their worsening through Grade 2 predicted an elevated risk, whereas longer or increasing sleep duration, stronger family interactions, and appropriate parental control were protective. In contrast, higher maternal parenting stress, greater overall media use time, and a larger proportion of game-centered media use functioned as risk factors. These findings identify modifiable early childhood and early elementary predictors of high-risk maintenance trajectories of media overdependence and may inform early screening and preventive interventions in families, schools, and communities. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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17 pages, 1083 KB

Open AccessArticle

Digital Competence as Psychological Defense: Impact of Digital Competence on Problematic Mobile Use Among Paraguayan University Students

by Derlis Cáceres Troche, Moussa Boumadan and Melchor Gómez

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1687; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15121687 - 5 Dec 2025

Viewed by 331

Abstract

University students’ excessive smartphone use has become a widespread concern due to its association with poor academic performance, mental health issues, and other negative outcomes, this study investigated whether digital competence (digital competence) can function as a psychological buffer against problematic mobile phone use in a Latin American context. A cross-sectional survey of N = 500 Paraguayan undergraduates (aged 18–29, 61% female, from both public and private universities) was conducted. Students answered validated questionnaires on digital competence and problematic smartphone use, along with supplemental items about phone-related anxiety. Results: Higher digital competence was significantly associated with lower problematic use (Pearson r = −0.38, p < 0.001). Structural equation modeling confirmed that digital competence negatively predicted problematic smartphone use (standardized β = −0.42, p < 0.001), supporting its role as a protective factor. This relationship held for both male and female students. Our findings suggest that fostering college students’ digital competence may help inoculate them against unhealthy smartphone habits. Efforts to integrate digital competence training into university curricula and health promotion programs could be a practical strategy to curb smartphone overuse and its adverse effects on student well-being. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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19 pages, 797 KB

Open AccessArticle

Problematic Internet Use in Adolescents Is Driven by Internal Distress Rather Than Family or Socioeconomic Contexts: Evidence from South Tyrol, Italy

by Christian J. Wiedermann, Verena Barbieri, Giuliano Piccoliori and Adolf Engl

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 1534; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15111534 - 11 Nov 2025

Viewed by 613

Abstract

Problematic Internet use is an emerging concern in adolescent mental health and is closely linked to psychological distress and emotional regulation. This cross-sectional study analyzed self-reported data from 1550 adolescents aged 11–19 years in South Tyrol, a linguistically and culturally diverse region in Northern Italy. Problematic Internet use was measured using the validated Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale 2 (GPIUS-2), along with standardized instruments for depressive symptoms (PHQ-2) and anxiety (SCARED-GAD). Multivariable regression analysis revealed that depression and anxiety symptoms were the strongest independent predictors of higher GPIUS-2 scores. In contrast, demographic factors such as gender, family language, urbanization, migration background, and parental education were not significantly associated with PIU. Modest associations were observed between GPIUS-2 scores and both perceived economic burden and parental use of digital control tools. Perceived family support showed a small protective effect. These findings underscore the central role of emotional vulnerability in adolescent PIU and suggest that interventions should focus on supporting mental health and adaptive coping rather than solely targeting screen time or structural family characteristics. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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17 pages, 282 KB

Open AccessArticle

How Do Internal and External Control Factors Affect Cyberbullying? Partial Test of Situational Action Theory

by Seong-Sik Lee and Sohee Jung

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(7), 837; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15070837 - 20 Jun 2025

Viewed by 1147

Abstract

This study attempts to provide a comprehensive explanation for cybercrimes, with emphasis on cyberbullying, by applying situational action theory (SAT). Various hypotheses regarding the motivational and moral dimensions of cyberbullying are presented. Specifically, the interaction effects between motivational and moral factors, such as individual morality and environmental factors of differential association with cyberbullying peers, are examined. Moreover, the roles of self-control and deterrence are investigated as internal and external control factors in situations where conflicts arise between an individual’s morality and the moral rules of their environment. The findings of this study support the assertions of SAT and demonstrate significant interaction effects between cyberbullying victimization and moral factors. Furthermore, consistent with SAT’s discussion on conflicts in the moral dimension, this study reveals that self-control functions as a control factor in situations where individuals possess high morality but are confronted with high levels of differential association with cyberbullying peers; however, the argument that deterrence operates in situations of low differential association with cyberbullying peers and low individual morality is not supported. Despite the partial verification of SAT, this theory is generally endorsed and offers utility in explaining cyberbullying. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

19 pages, 1880 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessing the Spectrum of Internet Use in a Healthy Sample: Altered Psychological States and Intact Brain Responses to an Equiprobable Go/NoGo Task

by Dovile Simkute, Povilas Tarailis, Evaldas Pipinis and Inga Griskova-Bulanova

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 579; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050579 - 25 Apr 2025

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 1391

Abstract

Problematic internet use (PIU) is linked to psychological distress and cognitive alterations, yet its early pre-clinical effects remain unclear. This study explored the psychological, behavioral, and neurophysiological correlates of PIU in a healthy, non-clinical population, focusing on response inhibition and execution within internet use patterns. A total of 133 participants (74 females, aged 18–35) were assessed using PIUQ-9 and DPIU questionnaires, along with measures of anxiety, depression, and obsessive–compulsive symptoms. An auditory equiprobable Go/NoGo task was used and event-related potentials (ERPs; N1/N2/P2/P3) were analyzed in relation to PIU severity and different online activities engagement. Additionally, behavioral, psychological, and neurophysiological profiles of individuals with high and low PIU levels were compared. PIU severity correlated with anxiety, depression, and obsessive–compulsive symptoms, while Go/NoGo task accuracy was unaffected. N1 amplitudes negatively correlated with PIU severity and gaming engagement, suggesting altered early sensory processing. NoGo-P3 latency positively correlated with information search engagement, indicating delayed inhibitory processing in frequent online searchers. High and low PIU groups differed in psychological measures but not in ERP or behavioral measures. Our findings confirm psychological distress in PIU alongside subtle neurophysiological alterations, suggesting that ERP measures in the equiprobable Go/NoGo task may not be highly sensitive PIU risk biomarkers in non-clinical populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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17 pages, 784 KB

Open AccessArticle

Assessment of the Relationship Between Internet Addiction, Psychological Well-Being, and Sleep Quality: A Cross-Sectional Study Involving Adult Population

by Mehmet Emin Arayici, Sema Gultekin Arayici, Ozum Erkin Geyiktepe and Hatice Simsek

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(3), 344; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15030344 - 11 Mar 2025

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 5330

Abstract

Internet addiction is an emerging public health concern among adults, potentially affecting psychological well-being and sleep quality. Although a substantial body of research has focused on adolescents and younger adults, less is known about middle-aged and older adult populations. This study investigated the relationships between Internet addiction, sleep quality, and psychological well-being in 629 adults (aged 30–60 years) and examined the socio-demographic predictors of Internet addiction. Participants completed online questionnaires assessing Internet addiction, psychological well-being, and sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index). The final sample had a mean age of 39.4 (SD = 7.8), with 53.4% female participants. Most were employed (77.9%), and nearly half held an undergraduate degree (49.1%). The mean Internet addiction score was 38.1 ± 13.6. Poor sleep quality was prevalent (67.2%), and Internet addiction was positively correlated with total PSQI scores (r = 0.593; p < 0.001). Higher psychological well-being was inversely associated with both Internet addiction (r = −0.417; p < 0.001) and poor sleep quality (r = −0.490; p < 0.001). Younger age, female gender, regular employment, and higher income predicted greater Internet addiction, whereas having an undergraduate degree was associated with lower scores. Taken together, the findings of this study emphasize the importance of addressing sleep quality and psychological well-being to mitigate excessive Internet use in mid-life and older populations, particularly among those at higher risk. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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13 pages, 1521 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mechanisms Linking Social Media Use and Sleep in Emerging Adults in the United States

by Joshua Ethan Kinsella and Brian N. Chin

Behav. Sci. 2024, 14(9), 794; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs14090794 - 9 Sep 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 19835

Abstract

Social media use is associated with poor sleep outcomes. We aimed to extend previous research by examining how measures of social media use would affect two sleep characteristics: sleep quality and insomnia symptoms. In addition, we tested a serial mediation model linking social media use to sleep through increases in negative social comparison and pre-sleep cognitive arousal. Participants were 830 emerging adults (ages 18–30) who were recruited for an online survey study in February 2024. The sample was 63.1% female, with an average age of 24. We examined three measures of social media use: duration (minutes of daily use), frequency (number of weekly visits to social media platforms), and emotional investment (attachment to and integration of social media into daily life). Consistent with our hypothesis, greater emotional investment in social media and more frequent social media use were associated with poorer sleep quality and greater insomnia severity. We also found evidence supporting our hypothesized serial mediation model: emotional investment in social media and more frequent social media use were associated with increased negative social comparison, which subsequently increased pre-sleep cognitive arousal, which then led to poorer sleep outcomes. Our findings suggest that negative social comparison and pre-sleep cognitive arousal are important mechanisms linking social media use to poor sleep outcomes. Future studies should aim to test this serial mediation model using longitudinal data and experimental methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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22 pages, 1602 KB

Open AccessReview

Reconceptualising the Digital Gender Divide, Accommodating New Forms of Virtual Gender-Based Violence

by Elena López-de-Arana Prado

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(11), 1568; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15111568 - 17 Nov 2025

Viewed by 749

Abstract

From a critical feminist perspective, it is hypothesised that the gender digital divide may be related to new forms of virtual gender-based violence that particularly affect girls and young women. If this is the case, these forms of violence would fall within the dimension of exploitation or quality of use of technologies that characterises the digital divide. To test this hypothesis, a documentary analysis of the phenomenon was carried out by reviewing different cases reported in various media outlets, which show that the well-being of girls and adolescents is at risk when technology is involved. Four categories emerge that reflect situations in which technology becomes a tool for promoting self-harm and suicide among minors through exposure to harmful content, grooming, sexting and/or sextortion; the digital sexual exploitation of underage girls through deepfakes or intimate images generated with artificial intelligence; the consumption of violent and hateful content in mass chats; and the incitement of gender-based violence through video games. The results show the reproduction and perpetuation of gender-based violence in the digital world. To guarantee safe, inclusive and equitable digital environments, various measures are essential, including European policies or plans aimed at guaranteeing digital security and rights, and those related to critical digital literacy with a gender perspective in formal education (school and university) and informal education (parents, carers and guardians). Finally, we urge that the focus be placed on personal digital resilience, since thinking of a completely secure digital world is a naive and unattainable utopia. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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20 pages, 306 KB

Open AccessReview

Fostering Digital Well-Being Through (e-)Service-Learning: Engaging Students in Responsible and Inclusive Digital Practices

by Irene Culcasi, Rosario Cerrillo and Maria Cinque

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(9), 1158; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15091158 - 25 Aug 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1281

Abstract

(1) Background: In today’s digital society, challenges like cyberbullying, harmful social media use, and unhealthy digital habits demand innovative and inclusive educational responses. This study investigates the potential of service-learning (SL) and electronic service-learning (e-SL) as experiential approaches to enhance digital well-being among youth. By actively engaging students, educators, and community stakeholders in co-designed projects, SL/e-SL promotes critical awareness, digital citizenship, and prosocial values while addressing digital risks. (2) Methods: This review offers a literature-based analysis of existing programs and good practices that apply experiential education to encourage responsible digital engagement. It explores SL and e-SL experiences across various educational settings. (3) Results: The findings show that SL and e-SL can be effective educational tools, creating meaningful opportunities for youth to participate in tackling digital issues and building inclusive spaces where students, faculty, and communities collaborate to foster digital literacy and well-being. The analysis also led to the development of quality standards for SL and e-SL practices that promote digital well-being. (4) Conclusions: This study highlights key implications for teaching, underscoring the value of integrative pedagogies that connect experiential learning to digital challenges, promoting a more inclusive and responsible digital culture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

35 pages, 1072 KB

Open AccessReview

The Association Between Internet Addiction and Adolescents’ Mental Health: A Meta-Analytic Review

by Elena Soriano-Molina, Rosa M. Limiñana-Gras, Rosa M. Patró-Hernández and María Rubio-Aparicio

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(2), 116; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15020116 - 23 Jan 2025

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 21593

Abstract

This study examines the association between problematic internet use, or internet addiction, and adolescent mental health, focusing on key psychological variables, assessing the strength of these associations, and identifying potential moderating factors. Methods: A search of the Web of Science databases over the past five years identified 830 articles. Of these, 33 met the inclusion criteria, involving 303,243 participants (average age 14.57; 49.44% female). The selection process was verified by two researchers. Results: Nine psychological variables were analyzed: depression, anxiety, stress, suicidal behaviour, psychological well-being, self-esteem, externalizing problems, aggressiveness, and impulsiveness. Internet addiction showed positive correlations with aggressiveness (r+ = 0.391), depression (r+ = 0.318), anxiety (r+ = 0.252), and suicidal behaviour (r+ = 0.264). Negative correlations were observed with psychological well-being (r+ = −0.312) and self-esteem (r+ = −0.306). No significant associations were found for externalizing problems, impulsiveness, or stress. None of the moderators showed a significant correlation with internet addiction and depression. Conclusions: Although limited by small sample sizes for some variables and the cross-sectional design of most studies, the findings confirm that there is a negative relationship between internet addiction and adolescent mental health. It is related to poorer self-perceived health, greater psychological distress, and greater aggression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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12 pages, 1953 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Optimal Non-Pharmacological Interventions for Reducing Problematic Internet Use in Youth: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta-Analysis

by Jing-Jing Tian, Xiao-Ya He and Zhen Guo

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(1), 98; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15010098 - 20 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3074

Abstract

The purpose of this network meta-analysis (NMA) is to compare the effect of different non-pharmacological interventions (NPIs) on Problematic Internet Use (PIU). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published from their inception to 22 December 2023 were searched in Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, Medline, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database, Chinese BioMedical Literature Database, and WanFang Data. We carried out a data analysis to compare the efficacy of various NPIs using Bayesian NMA. A battery of analyses and assessments, such as conventional meta-analysis and risk of bias, were performed concurrently. Two reviewers extracted data and evaluated bias using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool independently. We identified 90 RCTs including 15 different NPIs (5986 participants), namely sports intervention (SI), electroencephalogram biological feedback (EBF), reality therapy (RT), positive psychology therapy (PPT), sandplay therapy (ST), educational intervention (EI), compound psychotherapy (CPT), electroacupuncture therapy (AT), group counseling (GC), family therapy (FT), electrotherapy (ELT), craving behavior intervention (CBI), virtual reality therapy (VRT), cognitive behavior therapy (CBT), and mindfulness therapy (MT). Our NMA results showed that SI, EBF, RT, PPT, ST, EI, CPT, AT, GC, FT, ELT, CBT, CBI, VRT, and MT were effective in reducing PIU levels. The most effective NPI was SI (SMD = −4.66, CrI: −5.51, −3.82, SUCRA = 95.43%), followed by EBF (SMD = −4.51, CrI: −6.62, −2.39, SUCRA = 90.89%) and RT (SMD = −3.83, CrI: −6.01, −1.62, SUCRA = 81.90%). Our study showed that SI was the best NPI to relieve PIU levels in youth. Medical staff should be aware of the application of SI to the treatment of PIU in youth in future clinical care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Tackling Cyberbullying, Social Media, and Problematic Internet and Mobile Use: Research and Strategies for Effective Intervention)

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