Effectiveness of a Nurse-Led Intervention for Adolescents With Problematic Internet Use

Area of Science:

• Psychology
• Public Health
• Education

Background:

• Problematic internet use (PIU) is a growing concern among adolescents.
• PIU negatively impacts biopsychosocial functioning and academic performance.
• Early intervention is crucial for mitigating the adverse effects of PIU.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the effectiveness of a 10-week intervention program on problematic internet use (PIU).
• To evaluate the intervention's impact on biopsychosocial functioning and academic performance in adolescents.
• To determine the long-term effects of the intervention at 3 months post-treatment.

Main Methods:

• A randomized controlled trial was conducted with 100 adolescents screened for PIU.
• Participants were assigned to an experimental group or a wait-list control group.
• Data were collected using PIU questionnaires, biopsychosocial functioning tools, and academic performance metrics at baseline, post-intervention, and 3-month follow-up.

Main Results:

• The intervention group showed significant reductions in PIU compared to the control group (p < 0.05).
• Significant improvements were observed in physical, psychological, and social functioning for the intervention group.
• Academic performance significantly improved in adolescents who received the intervention.

Conclusions:

• The 10-week intervention program is effective in reducing problematic internet use among adolescents.
• The intervention positively impacts adolescents' overall biopsychosocial well-being.
• The positive effects on PIU, functioning, and academic performance are sustained at 3 months post-intervention.