Mental Health News
Researchers at Michigan State University revealed how excessive screen time is not related to self-esteem issues in teens. The study is published in the journal Social Science Computer Review.
The Study
The researchers surveyed a group of 3,258 rural adolescents in the US. They examined the link between the teens’ self-esteem as well as social connectedness and activities and their home internet access. The study also took into account parental control of screen time in teenagers.
The Findings
The results revealed that excessive screen time is not a problem for teens and it does not affect the mental health of adolescents or their self-esteem.
Instead, it was found that teenagers who had poor internet access at home and/or those whose parents exerted the most control over their media use were more likely to be vulnerable to mental health disorders. In fact, the researchers specify that teenagers disconnected from the internet are more prone to self-esteem and self-confidence issues.
One of the lead authors, Keith Hampton, elaborated: “Teens who are disconnected from today’s technologies are more isolated from their peers, which can lead to problems. Social media and video games are deeply integrated into youth culture, and they do more than entertain. They help kids to socialize, they contribute to identity formation and provide a channel for social support.”
To Know More You May Refer To
Hampton, K. N., & Shin, I. (2022). Disconnection More Problematic for Adolescent Self-Esteem than Heavy Social Media Use: Evidence from Access Inequalities and Restrictive Media Parenting in Rural America. Social Science Computer Review, 0(0). https://doi.org/10.1177/08944393221117466
