EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF PSYCHOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS ON INTERNET ADDICTION AND MENTAL HEALTH IN ADOLESCENTS: A SYSTEMIC REVIEW

DOI: https://doie.org/10.65985/jbse.2025970538

Mr. Sangam S. Sawant, Dr. Jasline M

Keywords:

adolescents; internet addiction; problematic internet use; internet gaming disorder; cognitive-behavioral therapy.

Abstract:

Adolescent internet addiction (IA), encompassing problematic internet use and gaming disorder, has become a significant behavioral health concern amid rising digital engagement. This systematic review aimed to synthesize empirical evidence on the effectiveness of psychological interventions—namely cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs), motivational interviewing (MI), family-based therapy, and school-based or digital programs—among adolescents aged 10–19 years. Searches across PubMed/MEDLINE and PubMed Central up to 15 September 2025 included randomized, quasi-experimental studies, meta-analyses, and umbrella reviews. Primary outcomes were IA/IGD severity and incidence; secondary outcomes included depression, anxiety, coping, sleep, and family functioning. Findings reveal that CBT consistently reduced IA/IGD severity and improved self-regulation and time management. Family-based interventions strengthened communication and cohesion, while MBIs enhanced emotional regulation, and MI improved motivation for change. Scalable interventions like school-based media literacy and app-based programs showed preventive benefits. Combined psychotherapy-pharmacotherapy yielded additional advantages in comorbid conditions. Overall, psychological interventions— particularly CBT and family therapy—emerge as effective, adaptable, and developmentally appropriate strategies for mitigating adolescent IA. Stepped-care models integrating school, family, and digital platforms demonstrate strong potential for sustainable large-scale implementation.

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