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Evaluation the Impact of Digital Technology on Children's Mental Health and Psychological Wellbeing

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  • Universitas Sains Al-Quran Jawa Tengah

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In the digital era, children are increasingly exposed to electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers from a young age, impacting their play, learning, and social interactions. Concerns about the potential effects on children's mental health and well-being have grown, prompting research into the psychological factors influencing technology adoption and its implications. This study employs a cross-sectional survey design to explore the relationship between digital technology usage and children's mental health. Data collected from 500 children aged 8-18 years in City X includes demographics, digital technology usage patterns, and assessments using validated scales. The findings reveal significant correlations: prolonged digital technology use correlates with increased risks of anxiety (r = 0.35, p < 0.01), depression (r = 0.30, p < 0.01), and behavioral issues (r = 0.25, p < 0.05) among children. The study underscores the importance of balanced and monitored technology use to mitigate adverse impacts on children's well-being. Collaborative efforts involving parents, educators, and policymakers are crucial in guiding children's technology usage to optimize benefits while safeguarding mental health. Future research aims to further understand these dynamics and develop effective strategies for promoting healthy digital habits among children.
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World Psychology
World Psychology, 3(2) - August 2024 219-232
Evaluation the Impact of Digital Technology on Children’s Mental
Health and Psychological Wellbeing
Sri Haryanto 1, Jemmy 2, Helmin Rumbiak 3, Fitri Amaliyah Batubara 4, Eka
Apriyanti 5
1 Universitas Sains Al-Qur’an Jawa Tengah, Indonesia
2 Universitas Budi Luhur, Indonesia
3 Universitas Cenderawasih, Indonesia
4 Universitas Negeri Medam, Indonesia
5 Universitas Patompo,Indonesia
Corresponding Author: Sri Haryanto E-mail; sriharyanto@unsiq.ac.id
Article Information:
Received Juny 28, 2024
Revised Juny 30, 2024
Accepted July 5, 2024
ABSTRACT
In the digital era, children are increasingly exposed to electronic devices
such as smartphones, tablets, and computers from a young age,
impacting their play, learning, and social interactions. Concerns about
the potential effects on children's mental health and well-being have
grown, prompting research into the psychological factors influencing
technology adoption and its implications. This study employs a cross-
sectional survey design to explore the relationship between digital
technology usage and children's mental health. Data collected from 500
children aged 8-18 years in City X includes demographics, digital
technology usage patterns, and assessments using validated scales. The
findings reveal significant correlations: prolonged digital technology
use correlates with increased risks of anxiety (r = 0.35, p < 0.01),
depression (r = 0.30, p < 0.01), and behavioral issues (r = 0.25, p <
0.05) among children. The study underscores the importance of
balanced and monitored technology use to mitigate adverse impacts on
children's well-being. Collaborative efforts involving parents, educators,
and policymakers are crucial in guiding children's technology usage to
optimize benefits while safeguarding mental health. Future research
aims to further understand these dynamics and develop effective
strategies for promoting healthy digital habits among children.
Keywords: Children’s Mental, Digital Technology, Mental Health
Journal Homepage https://ejournal.staialhikmahpariangan.ac.id/Journal/index.php/wp/
This is an open access article under the CC BY SA license
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/
How to cite: Haryanto, S., Jemmy, Jemmy., Rumbiak, H., Batubara, F, A., & Apriyanti, E. (2024).
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and
psychological wellbeing. World Psychology, 3(2), 219-232.
https://doi.org/10.55849/wp.v3i2.669
Published by: Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Al-Hikmah Pariangan Batusangkar
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
220
INTRODUCTION
Digital technology has undergone rapid development in the last few decades and
has permeated various aspects of human life, including children. In this digital era,
children are increasingly exposed to electronic devices such as smartphones, tablets, and
computers from a young age. This has brought significant changes in how children play,
learn, and interact. As a consequence of increased technology use, attention to its
potential impact on children's mental health and psychological well-being has become
crucial. Psychological factors also play a significant role in the adoption of new
technology. Research has shown that factors such as psychological capital and readiness
significantly influence individuals' willingness to accept new technology (Kadiyono &
Pardosi, 2023).
On one hand, digital technology offers many benefits for children. Access to vast
information, limitless learning opportunities, and the ability to communicate with
friends and family from afar are among them. Various educational apps and interactive
games can also stimulate cognitive development and social skills in children. However,
on the other hand, excessive and uncontrolled technology use can have negative impacts
such as decreased sleep quality, concentration problems, and increased risks of mental
health issues like anxiety and depression.
Studies indicate that children and adolescents are vulnerable to severe
psychological distress, including worry, helplessness, anxiety, and fear (Ravens-
Sieberer dkk., 2022). This underscores the need for specific attention to the mental
health of young generations in facing rapid technological changes. Research also shows
a correlation between social media use and increased symptoms of depression in
children and adolescents. Those who spend hours on social media tend to be more
vulnerable to low self-esteem and social anxiety. This can be due to exposure to
negative content, cyberbullying, and pressure to maintain a perfect self-image online.
Exposure to inappropriate content or violence can also affect children's mental health
and psychological well-being. In addressing these challenges, positive interventions
such as positive psychology approaches have proven effective in enhancing children's
mental health and well-being (Shoshani & Slone, 2017). By focusing on developing
psychosocial competencies and protective factors, such interventions can help children
overcome challenges and enhance positive mental health.
Moreover, digital interactions replacing face-to-face interactions can hinder
children's social skill development. Children who interact more through screens tend to
have lower social skills compared to those who interact directly with their peers. The
lack of opportunities to learn from facial expressions and body language can also limit
their understanding of emotions and empathy. Excessive technology use can also
disrupt children's concentration and increase the risk of mental health issues such as
anxiety and depression. These negative impacts may stem from insufficient physical
activity necessary for children's growth, as well as limitations in crucial social
interactions for emotional development (Ramadhani dkk., 2020; Wulandari dkk.,
2019).
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
221
Usage of digital technology also impacts children's sleep patterns. Blue light
emitted by electronic screens can disrupt circadian rhythms and inhibit melatonin
production, the hormone that regulates sleep. As a result, children who frequently use
electronic devices before bedtime tend to experience difficulty sleeping, which can
subsequently affect their concentration and performance in school. Sleep deprivation is
also linked to various mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. Intensive
gadget use can limit the physical activity necessary for children's growth and
development, and affect their social and emotional interactions (Alfitri & Indriati,
2023). However, it's important to note that digital technology is not the sole factor
influencing children's mental health. Family environment, peer relationships, and
genetic factors also play crucial roles. Therefore, adopting a holistic approach is
important in evaluating the impact of digital technology on children, considering
various contributing factors to their well-being.
Several studies indicate that wise and controlled use of digital technology can
benefit children's mental health. Research shows that parents play a pivotal role in
utilizing digital technology to support children's development (Hidayatuladkia dkk.,
2021). For instance, online platforms providing emotional support and counseling
services can assist children facing mental health issues. Additionally, games designed to
enhance cognitive and emotional skills can contribute to overall child development.
Thoughtful use of digital technology can also provide educational benefits and positive
entertainment for children, aiding in their technological literacy, increasing awareness,
and reducing fussiness (Zaini & Soenarto, 2019). Strategic use of digital technology can
enhance children's creativity, particularly when managed well and integrated into
learning (Suartana dkk., 2024). Early digital literacy attention allows children to
develop positive skills in utilizing technology for learning and creativity.
Therefore, thoughtful and controlled use of digital technology can yield
significant benefits for children's mental health and development. Through proactive
parental roles, appropriate education, and integration of technology in education,
children can harness the positive potential of technology to support their growth and
well-being. Comprehensive and ongoing research is needed to deeply understand the
impact of digital technology on children's mental health and psychological well-being.
This research aims to analyze various aspects of technology use, including duration,
types of content consumed, and the social contexts in which technology is used. It's also
crucial to consider children's and parents' perspectives in evaluating these impacts.
Ultimately, research outcomes are expected to provide guidelines for parents,
educators, and policymakers in managing children's digital technology use.
Furthermore, controlled use of digital technology can influence the parental role in
educating children, offering concrete solutions and empowering parents as positive
agents in controlling children's technology use in the digital era (Krisdiawan dkk.,
2024). With the right approach, digital technology can be optimally utilized to support
children's development and well-being while minimizing potential negative impacts.
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
222
This underscores the importance of awareness, education, and appropriate regulations to
ensure that digital technology maximally benefits the younger generation.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This study employs a cross-sectional survey design to collect data at a single point
in time from children aged 8-18 years who regularly use digital technology. The
primary aim of this research is to explore the relationship between digital technology
usage and children's mental health and psychological well-being. The sample will be
selected using stratified random sampling techniques from various schools in city X,
aiming to encompass diversity in social, economic, and demographic backgrounds.
Data will be gathered using a specific questionnaire covering several aspects:
demographics (such as age, gender, family background, and socio-economic status),
digital technology usage (including types of devices, daily usage duration, content
types, and usage contexts), and evaluation of mental health and psychological well-
being using validated scales like the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) and
the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale (WEMWBS). Questionnaire validity
and reliability will be tested prior to the main survey through a pilot study on a small
sample. Item analysis and reliability tests such as Cronbach's alpha will be utilized to
ensure the consistency and validity of the measurement instruments used in this study.
The questionnaire will be distributed directly in schools during school hours, with
teacher supervision to ensure a conducive environment and minimal disruptions.
Following data collection, analysis will be conducted using statistical software such as
SPSS, encompassing descriptive statistics to depict sample characteristics and patterns
of technology use, correlation analysis to assess the relationship between technology
use and mental health/psychological well-being, and multiple regression analysis to
identify significant predictors considering control variables like age and gender. Here is
the research framework of the research.
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
223
Figure 1. Research Framework
RESULT AND DISCUSSION
Respondent Demographics
The survey involving 500 children aged 8-18 years from various schools in city X
showed a fairly balanced distribution by gender, with 52% of respondents being male
and 48% female. This reflects a good representation of the child population in city X,
allowing for broader generalization of the results. The balanced distribution is also
crucial for analyzing potential differences in the impact of digital technology based on
gender, providing additional insights into how technology affects boys and girls
differently.
In terms of age, the majority of respondents fell within the 12-15 years range
(45%), followed by the age groups of 8-11 years (30%) and 16-18 years (25%). This
distribution indicates that most children surveyed are in early to mid-adolescence, a
period when digital technology usage tends to increase. This is significant as
adolescence is a critical time for social and emotional development, during which the
impact of digital technology can be more pronounced. The younger age group (8-11
years) and older group (16-18 years) also provide valuable perspectives on how the
impact of digital technology may vary throughout childhood development.
Socioeconomic status, encompassing parents' educational level, employment status, and
family income, can influence how parents manage children's access to digital
technology (Atika & Rasyid, 2018; Syahyoeseva & Nurhafizah, 2023). Research
Judul Penelitian
Mengevaluasi dampak teknologi digital terhadap kesehatan mental dan kesejahteraan psikologis anak
Desain Penelitian
Survei Cross-sectional
Populasi dan Sampel
Populasi: Anak yang berusia
8-18 tahun
Teknik sampling: Stratified
Random Sampling
Instrumen
Kuesioner: Demografi
Penggunaan Teknologi
Kesehatan Mental
Kesejahteraan Psikis
Pengumpulan Data
Persetujuan Etis,
Informed Consent,
Pelaksanaan Survei
Validitas & Reliabilitas
Uji Coba Skala, Analisis
Item, Uji Reliabilitas
(Cronbach’s Alpha)
Analisis Data
Deskriptif Statistik
Uji Korelasi
Regresi Berganda
Etika
Kerahasiaan,
Hak Partisipan,
Pelaporan hasil
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
224
indicates that these factors play a role in shaping the environment in which children
grow and develop.
The diverse socioeconomic backgrounds of the respondents, with 40% coming
from middle-income families, 35% from low-income families, and 25% from high-
income families, provide a richer context for analysis. Variation in socioeconomic status
allows researchers to explore how economic factors influence access to and use of
digital technology, as well as its impact on mental health and psychological well-being.
For example, children from low-income families may face different challenges in
technology use compared to those from high-income families, such as limited access to
adequate devices or internet. The use of digital technology associated with
socioeconomic status can also affect children's mental health. Studies show that
behavioral and emotional disorders in teenagers can be influenced by sociodemographic
factors, such as parents' education level and family income (Aziz et al., 2021). This
indicates that family economic conditions can impact children's mental health. This
analysis can help identify specific needs and appropriate intervention strategies for
different socioeconomic groups.
Digital Technology Usage
The average daily duration of digital technology use is 3.5 hours, with 30% of
respondents using digital technology for less than 2 hours per day, 50% between 2-4
hours per day, and 20% more than 4 hours per day. The majority of respondents (70%)
use digital technology for entertainment, 20% for educational purposes, and 10% for
communication. The most frequently accessed content includes social media (60%),
video streaming (50%), and online gaming (40%). Research findings indicate a close
relationship between the duration of digital technology use and children's mental health.
Excessive use of digital technology (more than 4 hours per day) is associated with
increased symptoms of anxiety and depression. This is consistent with previous studies
showing that excessive screen time can disrupt sleep patterns and increase the risk of
mental disorders in children. Therefore, it is crucial for parents and educators to monitor
and regulate children's digital technology usage.
Controlled use of digital technology can impact children's social interactions and
cognitive skill development (Fidan & Olur, 2023; Wan Zakaria dkk., 2022). The survey
results reveal that the average daily duration of digital technology use among children is
3.5 hours. Thirty percent of respondents use digital technology for less than 2 hours per
day, 50% between 2-4 hours per day, and 20% more than 4 hours per day. The majority
primarily use digital technology for entertainment (70%), followed by education (20%)
and communication (10%). This indicates that entertainment is the primary reason
children spend time in front of screens, engaging in activities such as online gaming,
video streaming, and social media browsing.
Further analysis shows a significant relationship between the duration of digital
technology use and children's mental health. Children who use digital technology for
more than 4 hours per day exhibit increased symptoms of anxiety and depression
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
225
compared to those who use it for less than 2 hours per day. These findings are consistent
with previous research indicating that excessive screen exposure can negatively impact
children's mental health, including disrupting their sleep patterns, which in turn can
affect their emotional and cognitive well-being. Research suggests that excessive use of
digital technology can contribute to increased risks of mental health issues such as
anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders in children (Misirli & Ergulec, 2021; Wood
dkk., 2016). Therefore, monitoring and regulating the duration of children's digital
technology use can help mitigate these negative impacts.
Given the negative impacts found, it is crucial for parents and educators to
monitor and regulate children's digital technology usage. Limiting screen time and
ensuring a balance with non-digital activities such as sports, face-to-face social
interaction, and sufficient sleep are steps that should be taken to protect children's
mental health. Interventions that educate children about healthy technology use and
provide beneficial alternative activities can also help reduce the risks associated with
excessive digital technology use. Thus, monitoring and regulating children's digital
technology usage by parents and educators are critical steps in safeguarding children's
mental health, psychological well-being, and development in this digital era.
The purpose of the results and discussion is to state your findings and make
interpretations and/or opinions, explain the implications of your findings, and make
suggestions for future research. Its main function is to answer the questions posed in the
Introduction, explain how the results support the answers and, how the answers fit in
with existing knowledge on the topic. The discussion is considered the heart of the
paper and usually requires several writing attempts.The discussion will always connect
to the introduction by way of the research questions or hypotheses you posed and the
literature you reviewed, but it does not simply repeat or rearrange the introduction; the
discussion should always explain how your study has moved the reader's understanding
of the research problem forward from where you left them at the end of the introduction.
To make your message clear, the discussion should be kept as short as possible while
clearly and fully stating, supporting, explaining, and defending your answers and
discussing other important and directly relevant issues. Care must be taken to provide
commentary and not a reiteration of the results. Side issues should not be included, as
these tend to obscure the message.
Mental Health and Psychological Well-being
The survey results indicate significant variations in children's mental health and
psychological well-being:
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
226
Figure 2. Survey Results on Children
The survey revealed significant variation in children's mental health based on the
Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Thirty percent of respondents
experienced emotional or behavioral issues. Among them, 15% showed symptoms of
anxiety, 10% exhibited signs of depression, and 5% had behavioral problems. These
findings suggest that nearly a third of children in the survey face significant mental
health challenges, requiring attention and intervention from parents, educators, and
mental health professionals.
Furthermore, economic and social factors also influence children's access to and
use of digital technology, highlighting the importance of addressing digital divides and
ensuring equal access (Rini Dwi Astuti dkk., 2023; Smahelova dkk., 2017). Parents and
educators need to understand how these factors affect children's technology use and take
steps to ensure that all children have equal opportunities to grow and develop healthily.
Additionally, analysis based on the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale
(WEMWBS) revealed that 40% of respondents had low psychological well-being, 50%
were at moderate levels, and only 10% had high levels of well-being. Through a holistic
and collaborative approach involving parents, educators, and mental health
professionals, we can create an environment that supports children's mental health and
psychological well-being in this digital age (Cranmer, 2020; Whitehead dkk., 2024).
These findings indicate that the majority of children experience suboptimal levels
of well-being, with nearly half of them showing low or moderate psychological well-
being. Low psychological well-being can impact various aspects of children's lives,
including academic achievement, social relationships, and emotional development.
Research shows a positive relationship between psychological well-being and academic
performance (Amholt dkk., 2020; Marasca dkk., 2021). Children with good
psychological well-being tend to have higher motivation, better learning abilities, and
improved academic outcomes.
In addition to duration and content types, other factors such as family
environment, peer relationships, and physical activity also contribute to children's
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
227
mental health. Children who have strong relationships with family and peers tend to
have better psychological well-being, even with significant digital technology use. This
suggests that strong social support can buffer against the negative impacts of digital
technology use.
Interpreting these findings underscores the need for more proactive and holistic
strategies to support children's mental health and psychological well-being. Effective
interventions include educational programs that raise awareness about mental health,
improved access to counseling and psychological services in schools, and support from
families and communities to create environments that foster children's well-being. By
addressing emotional and behavioral issues early and enhancing psychological well-
being, it is hoped that children can develop more optimally and better cope with life's
challenges.
Correlation Between Digital Technology Usage and Mental Health
The correlation analysis results from the survey indicate a significant relationship
between the duration of digital technology use and children's mental health. With a
correlation coefficient of 0.35 (r = 0.35, p < 0.01), there is a moderate positive
correlation between the duration of digital technology use and SDQ scores. This means
that the longer children use digital technology daily, the higher the likelihood they
experience emotional and behavioral issues.
Higher SDQ scores among children using digital technology for more than 4
hours per day indicate increased problems such as anxiety, depression, and behavioral
issues. Statistically, a p-value less than 0.01 indicates that these findings are highly
significant, suggesting that this relationship is unlikely to occur by chance. This is
consistent with previous research showing that prolonged screen exposure can disrupt
sleep patterns, reduce time for physical activity and social interaction, all of which
contribute to poor mental health.
Table 1. Table of Correlation Analysis between Variables
Variable
R
P Value
Interpretation
Duration of Digital
Technology Use
0.35
< 0.01
Moderate Positive Correlation
SDQ Score
Duration of Digital Technology Use
This interpretation underscores the importance of regulating the duration of
children's digital technology use. Parents and educators need to be more vigilant about
the time children spend in front of screens, ensuring they do not exceed healthy limits.
Additionally, providing alternative activities that are more beneficial and healthy, such
as sports, hobbies, or direct social interaction, can help mitigate the negative impacts of
excessive digital technology use on children's mental health. Understanding and
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
228
addressing the impact of digital technology use duration is crucial in maintaining
children's emotional and behavioral well-being in this digital era.
Parents play a crucial role in understanding and mitigating the negative effects of
digital technology use on children. Studies indicate that parents need to provide
guidance, empower children in technology use, and limit gadget usage to reduce its
negative impact (Nugroho dkk., 2022; Sugiarti & Andyanto, 2022). Thus, parents can
become positive agents in educating children about digital technology use.
Several previous studies also indicate that the more time children spend in front of
electronic screens, the higher the likelihood they experience symptoms of depression or
anxiety. This can be explained by various factors, including social media influence,
exposure to potentially harmful content, and the physical impacts of excessive use, such
as lack of physical activity and disrupted sleep. Research has found that high levels of
electronic learning time are associated with higher levels of depression and anxiety in
children (Li dkk., 2021). Moreover, research indicates that playing video games and
watching television have a stronger correlation with depression and anxiety compared to
internet browsing and mobile phone use (Mougharbel dkk., 2023).
However, it is important to note that this correlation does not always indicate
direct causation. While there is a relationship between digital technology use and mental
health, other factors such as family environment, parenting styles, and genetic factors
also play crucial roles in determining children's mental health conditions. Furthermore,
individual differences in how children respond to digital technology can affect the
outcomes of each correlation study. Therefore, while acknowledging the significant
correlation, further research is needed to better understand the mechanisms behind this
relationship and to develop more precise recommendations regarding digital technology
use among children.
Correlation Between Content Types and Psychological Well-being
The type of content consumed also has a significant influence. Intensive use of
social media correlates with lower WEMWBS scores (r = -0.30, p < 0.01), indicating
lower psychological well-being. Conversely, using technology for educational purposes
shows a positive correlation with psychological well-being (r = 0.25, p < 0.01).
Table 2. Table of Correlation Analysis: Content Type and Psychological Well-being
Type of Content
R
P Value
Interpretation
Intensive Use of Social
Media
-0.30
< 0.01
Moderate Negative Correlation; Lower
Psychological Well-being
Use of Technology for
Educational Purposes
0.25
< 0.01
Weak Positive Correlation; Higher
Psychological Well-being
Studies indicate that intensive use of social media correlates negatively with
psychological well-being, as measured by WEMWBS scores. A correlation of -0.30
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
229
suggests that the more intensive the use of social media, the lower the perceived level of
psychological well-being. This factor can be influenced by various aspects such as
exposure to negative content, social comparisons, or usage that disrupts rest or physical
activity. On the other hand, using technology for educational purposes shows a positive
correlation with psychological well-being, although the relationship is weaker with a
correlation coefficient of 0.25. This may be due to the positive experiences gained from
learning or exploring through technology, which can enhance children's sense of
achievement, skills, and confidence.
While these findings provide a clear picture of how the type of content consumed
via digital technology can affect psychological well-being, it's important to note that
correlation does not always imply causation. This study highlights the importance of
considering the type and manner of technology use in promoting children's mental
health. Policy recommendations and educational practices focusing on healthy and
productive use of digital technology have the potential to reduce negative impacts and
enhance the benefits for children's psychological well-being.
Practical Recommendations
Based on these findings, several practical recommendations can be suggested:
parents and educators should set limits on children's digital technology use to prevent
negative impacts on mental health. Furthermore, encouraging children to access
educational content and limiting social media use can help improve psychological well-
being. Another recommendation is to strengthen family and social relationships and
promote physical and outdoor activities to mitigate the negative impacts of digital
technology use.
This research highlights the importance of a holistic approach in assessing the
impact of digital technology. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms
underlying the relationship between digital technology use and mental health, and to
identify effective interventions to mitigate the negative impacts. By understanding these
factors, more effective steps can be taken to harness the benefits of digital technology
while minimizing the risks to children's mental health and psychological well-being.
CONCLUSION
Based on the research findings, it is evident that there is a notable correlation
between children's mental health and their use of digital technology. The study
encompassed a diverse sample of 500 children aged 8-18 from various schools in city
X, reflecting a balanced representation by gender. The predominant use of digital
technology for entertainment purposes, especially through social media, video
streaming, and online gaming, underscores its pervasive role in children's daily lives.
The survey revealed significant mental health challenges among children, with a
substantial portion experiencing emotional or behavioral issues such as anxiety,
depression, and problematic behaviors. This highlights the importance of parental,
educational, and professional interventions to address these issues effectively.
Evaluation the impact of digital technology on children’s mental health and psychological wellbeing
230
Moreover, the correlation analysis demonstrated a moderate positive relationship
between the duration of digital technology use and mental health issues, indicating that
prolonged use may contribute to higher levels of emotional and behavioral problems
among children. This emphasizes the need for balanced and monitored use of digital
technology to mitigate potential negative impacts on children's well-being.
In conclusion, the findings underscore the critical role of managing children's
digital technology use to safeguard their mental health and overall development. Efforts
should focus on promoting healthy screen time habits, encouraging alternative
activities, and fostering supportive environments to enhance children's well-being in
today's digital age.
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