MEDIA CONSUMPTION AND ADOLESCENT MENTAL HEALTH: PATTERNS, EFFECTS, AND INTERVENTIONS

Abstract

The pervasive role of digital media in adolescents’ daily lives has sparked growing concern among researchers, educators, and mental health professionals. This article reviews the current literature on the relationship between media consumption—across platforms such as social media, video streaming, gaming, and news—and mental health outcomes in adolescents. It highlights both negative associations, including increased risks of anxiety, depression, sleep disturbances, and body image issues, and potential benefits, such as social connectivity and access to mental health resources. The article also explores moderating variables such as media type, screen time, content nature, and individual differences. Finally, the paper discusses strategies for intervention, digital literacy education, and the role of parents and policymakers. The findings suggest a nuanced approach to media usage is essential for safeguarding adolescent mental health.