A REVIEW OF THE IMPACT OF DIGITAL MEDIA USAGE ON ADOLESCENT: MENTAL HEALTH AND BEHAVIOUR

Abstract

In the fast-changing digital age, adolescents are exposed to digital media environments and the digital media environment is influencing unconsciously their mental health, identity formation and behavioural patterns. The current review critically analyses 4 variables: digital media use, anxiety, self-esteem and delinquency, and is based upon a research work titled “Digital Media Influence on Adolescents: Exploring Links between Online Activities, Mental Health (Anxiety and Depression), Self-Esteem and Advertisement Cutting on SW, Delhi”. Based on empirical evidence and theoretical models the article discusses critically how excessive or maladaptive use of digital media leads to psychological disorders and risky behaviours among adolescents. The paper ends by highlighting the limitations of the existing literature and suggestions for future research and intervention.