In the digital age, the internet has transformed how individuals interact, access information, and communicate. However, with these advancements comes the downside of problematic internet use, particularly among adolescents. A recent study conducted by Kanu et al. highlights the prevalence and contributing factors of this phenomenon among in-school adolescents in Calabar municipality, Nigeria. This research sheds essential light on the psychological and social dimensions of internet engagement within a specific demographic that is particularly vulnerable to the pitfalls of excessive online interaction.
Problematic internet use, often characterized by excessive time spent online that leads to negative consequences in one’s life, has emerged as a significant concern worldwide. With the internet integrating deeply into the fabric of daily life, it is crucial to examine how social media, gaming, and other online activities affect young people’s mental health and social interactions. The study focuses on the alarming rates of internet addiction among adolescents, who are among the most active users of online platforms, often engaging with them in more immersive ways compared to other age groups.
The researchers employed a mixed-methods approach, utilizing both quantitative and qualitative data to present a comprehensive view of internet use among adolescents. Through surveys distributed to secondary school students in Calabar, paired with interviews to gain deeper insights, the findings reveal a startling rate of problematic internet use among participants. The information gathered indicates that a significant proportion of the surveyed adolescents reported experiencing negative impacts on their academic performance and relationships due to their internet habits.
The study also delves into the factors associated with problematic internet use. It emphasizes how environmental, psychological, and social variables interplay in shaping an adolescent’s internet behavior. For instance, the study found that adolescents with lower levels of parental supervision were more likely to engage in excessive internet use. This lack of guidance often leads to feelings of loneliness and depression, which further exacerbate their inclination to seek validation through online interactions.
Furthermore, the research highlights the role of peer influence in driving internet usage patterns. In a rapidly evolving digital landscape, adolescents often feel pressured to conform to social media trends and online behaviors perceived as normative among their peers. This compulsion can lead to an unhealthy balance in their lives, jeopardizing their studies and personal relationships in the quest for social acceptance and validation online.
Academaic institutions are called to action, as the study identifies schools as critical touchpoints for addressing these issues. By implementing educational programs about healthy internet habits, schools can play a pivotal role in mitigating the risks associated with excessive internet usage. Programs that encourage digital literacy, emphasize critical thinking about online content, and foster open discussions about internet risks are essential in helping students navigate their online experiences more effectively and responsibly.
Moreover, the growing penetration of mobile phones enhances accessibility to the internet, thus increasing the vulnerability of adolescents to develop problematic use. The research indicates that those who own smartphones tend to spend significantly more time online compared to their counterparts using traditional devices, highlighting the need for targeted interventions aimed at smartphone users. Parents, educators, and mental health professionals must work collaboratively to promote healthier digital habits among adolescents, ensuring they understand the potential pitfalls of their online engagements.
The mental health implications of problematic internet use are profound and multifaceted. The study uncovers a correlation between excessive internet use and various psychological concerns, including anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. As adolescents seek solace in the online world, they often become disconnected from real-world interactions, exacerbating feelings of isolation and emotional distress. This cycle can create a profound impact on their developmental trajectory, affecting their self-image and ability to cope with stressors in healthy ways.
The findings also provide insights into gender differences in internet use patterns among adolescents. Male students reported higher rates of engagement in gaming and competitive online activities, while female students were more inclined towards social media platforms. Understanding these differences can inform tailored interventions that address the unique challenges faced by each gender, promoting a balanced approach to internet engagement among all adolescents.
As the prevalence of problematic internet use rises, it is paramount for further research to investigate the long-term effects of such engagement on adolescents’ lives. Ongoing studies should aim to uncover how these patterns evolve as individuals transition into adulthood, examining the potential for sustained mental health issues and social dysfunction originating from early internet habits. Longitudinal studies could offer valuable insight into the trajectory of internet use and its psychological impacts over time.
Ultimately, combating problematic internet use requires a holistic approach encompassing education, community engagement, and systemic change. Stakeholders, including policymakers, educators, and parents, must prioritize mental health wellbeing in the digital sphere. Improving awareness of the signs of problematic internet use, coupled with accessible mental health resources, can empower adolescents to navigate their online lives successfully while maintaining mental and emotional balance.
As society continues to grapple with the implications of our increasingly digital existence, studies like that of Kanu et al. serve as a crucial reminder of the need for vigilance and proactive measures. Addressing the prevalence and associated factors of problematic internet use among adolescents is not just a matter of academic inquiry—it is a vital aspect of safeguarding the mental health and future potential of a generation navigating the complexities of digital life. Listening to the voices of adolescents and understanding their unique experiences can catalyze effective interventions, creating a healthier, more engaged populace equipped to thrive in an interconnected world.
The future of adolescent internet use will rely heavily on the frameworks we establish today. Promoting healthy lifestyles in the digital age involves ongoing education, community support, and fostering an environment where adolescents feel secure in their online identities. Through collaborative efforts, we can turn the tide on problematic internet use and lay the groundwork for a generation that thrives both online and offline.
In conclusion, Kanu et al.’s study presents timely findings that call for immediate action regarding internet use among adolescents. By recognizing the prevalence of these issues and addressing the associated factors comprehensively, we can better protect our youth and nurture a more balanced approach to their digital experiences.
Subject of Research: Problematic internet use among in-school adolescents in Calabar municipality, Nigeria.
Article Title: Prevalence and associated factors of problematic internet use among in-school adolescents in Calabar municipality, Nigeria.
Article References:
Kanu, P.A., Ugbe, MJ., Enyievi, P.B. et al. Prevalence and associated factors of problematic internet use among in-school adolescents in Calabar municipality, Nigeria.
Discov Ment Health 5, 117 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1007/s44192-025-00262-x
Image Credits: AI Generated
DOI: 10.1007/s44192-025-00262-x
Keywords: Problematic Internet Use, Adolescents, Mental Health, Internet Addiction, Social Media, Nigeria.
