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What Adolescents Have to Say about Problematic Internet Use: A Qualitative Study Based on Focus Groups
Simone Rollo1, Claudia Venuleo1, Lucrezia Ferrante1
1Department of Human and Social Studies, University of Salento, 73100 Lecce, Italy.
International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health
|November 10, 2023
Summary
Adolescents perceive Problematic Internet Use (PIU) as an addiction, but their views on its causes and prevention vary. PIU often stems from a complex interplay of personal, social, and cultural factors.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Adolescent Health
- Digital Media Studies
Background:
- Problematic Internet Use (PIU) is a growing concern among adolescents.
- Understanding adolescent perspectives on PIU is crucial for effective intervention.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore how adolescents define, understand, and propose strategies for dealing with Problematic Internet Use.
- To identify the underlying psychological, interpersonal, and sociocultural dimensions contributing to PIU in adolescents.
Main Methods:
- Conducted eight focus groups with 70 adolescents (9th and 11th graders) from four schools in Southern Italy.
- Applied Thematic Analysis to verbatim transcripts to identify key themes in adolescent discourse on PIU.
Main Results:
- Seven macro-categories emerged: definition, symptomatology, impact, determinants, intervention strategies, digital world's opportunities/limits, and unmet needs.
- Adolescents largely view PIU as an addiction, but express diverse opinions on its causes and prevention.
- PIU is understood as a psychological dynamic influenced by individual, interpersonal, and sociocultural factors.
Conclusions:
- Adolescent perspectives on PIU are multifaceted, highlighting its complex etiology.
- Intervention strategies should consider the interplay of individual vulnerabilities and socio-environmental contexts.
- Addressing unmet needs that drive adolescents to the internet is essential for PIU prevention and management.
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