Technology-Based Parenting and Digital Media Use: Adolescents’ Health in a Large, Cross-Sectional Study in Northern Italy
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: BACKGROUND: Extended digital media consumption affects the mental and overall health of children and adolescents. The role of technology-based parenting (TBP) in limiting or controlling digital media use in this context is controversial. METHODS: A representative sample of 5832 parents of schoolchildren aged 6 to 17 participated in an anonymous online survey in 2025. Correlation analysis identified simple associations with health-related parameters, and ANOVA models examined the relationship between TBP, digital media use and health-related parameters across children, early adolescents and late adolescents. RESULTS: Digital media use increased with age, whereas TBP peaked at 11 years of age. In children, both variables were positively associated, but for late adolescents, the association was negative. For early adolescents, both factors were related to mental health symptoms. In late adolescents, both factors are related to sleep duration and physical activity. Social support was positively associated with TBP in early adolescents and negatively associated with digital media use in children and late adolescents. ANOVA showed that late adolescents using digital media between 2.5 and 3.5 h a day slept more when controlled by TBP. CONCLUSION: Children should limit their digital media use. Early adolescents need strong child-parent relationships. Late adolescents can achieve a healthier lifestyle with TBP. Age-specific information campaigns and intervention programs can support families in managing digital media use and promoting well-being.
Source: Behavioral Sciences
DOI: 10.3390/bs16030439
Institution: Institut für Allgemeinmedizin und Public Health
Language: English
Subfield: Education
Field: Social Sciences
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $2,654
OpenAlex ID: W7138237700