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Screens and strategies: Testing interventions for adolescents‘ digital self-regulation competence

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Self-regulation in mobile device use is an important challenge for adolescents. This preregistered study tested whether two brief trainings–implementation intentions and positive reappraisal–enhance digital self-regulation in a sample of German adolescents ( N = 258) compared to an information-only and a no-intervention control group. Across groups, no consistent changes emerged in screen time, frustration with mobile device use, tendency towards mobile device addiction or digital maturity. Implementation intentions were associated with a small increase in satisfaction with mobile device use two weeks post-training, but this effect did not translate into broader behavioral outcomes. These findings provide little support for the effectiveness of the tested trainings for digital self-regulation competence, suggesting that more intensive or combined interventions may be necessary. • Preregistered field study tested digital self-regulation in 258 adolescents • Brief trainings did not increase digital self-regulation competence • Tested self-regulation strategies did not lead to changes in adolescent screen time • Implementation intentions slightly increased satisfaction with mobile device use • Findings suggest more intensive or combined interventions are required

Source: Computers in Human Behavior Reports

DOI: 10.1016/j.chbr.2026.101029

Authors: Kim Büttner, Oliver B. Büttner, Gunnar Mau

Institutions: University of Duisburg-Essen, Hochschule Magdeburg-Stendal

Language: English

Topic: Impact of Technology on Adolescents

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,880