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Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal – Vol. 12, No. 03
Publication Date: March 25, 2025
DOI:10.14738/assrj.1203.18402.
Susan, K. (2025). The Digital Dilemma: Balancing Phone Time and Real Life in the Age of Social Media. Advances in Social Sciences
Research Journal, 12(03). 103-108.
Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom
The Digital Dilemma: Balancing Phone Time and Real Life in the
Age of Social Media
Kemigisha Susan
Theology Department, School of Social and Human Studies,
Atlantic International University, Pioneer Plaza, 900 Fort
Street Mall 905, Honolulu, HI 96813, USA
ABSTRACT
The widespread adoption of smartphones and social media has led to a significant
increase in screen time among adolescents. This study investigated the relationship
between screen time and mental health in adolescents, with a focus on the impact
of screen time on mental health symptoms, social relationships, and productivity. A
mixed-methods approach was employed, combining both quantitative and
qualitative data collection and analysis methods. The study found that excessive
screen time was associated with negative mental health outcomes, including
anxiety, depression, and lower self-esteem. Focus group discussions revealed that
adolescents experience social pressure to be constantly connected to their screens,
contributing to feelings of anxiety and stress. The findings of this study have
implications for promoting healthy screen use habits among adolescents, including
the need for parents, educators, and healthcare professionals to be aware of the
potential negative effects of excessive screen time on adolescents’ mental health.
Keywords: Screen Time, Mental Health, Adolescents, Social Media, Digital Health
INTRODUCTION
The advent of smartphones and social media has revolutionized the way we communicate,
access information, and navigate our daily lives (Király et al., 2019; Twenge& Campbell, 2018).
However, the increasing prevalence of screen time has also raised concerns about its impact on
mental health, productivity, and social relationships (Orben & Przybylski, 2019; Burke et al.,
2010). Adolescents, in particular, are vulnerable to the effects of excessive screen time, as it can
interfere with their physical, emotional, and social development (Hinkley et al., 2012; Carter et
al., 2016).
The significance of this topic lies in the fact that adolescents spend a substantial amount of time
on screens, with some studies suggesting that they spend up to 7-8 hours per day on digital
devices (Rideout& Robb, 2018; Hinkley et al., 2012). This has led to concerns about the
potential negative effects of screen time on adolescents' mental health, including increased
symptoms of anxiety, depression, and loneliness (Twenge & Campbell, 2018; Orben &
Przybylski, 2019).
Excessive screen time has also been linked to decreased physical activity, poor sleep quality,
and decreased attention span (Hinkley et al., 2012; Carter et al., 2016; Király et al., 2019).
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Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal (ASSRJ) Vol. 12, Issue 03, March-2025
Services for Science and Education – United Kingdom
Therefore, it is essential to investigate the impact of screen time on adolescents' mental health,
productivity, and social relationships.
This study aims to explore the complex relationship between screen time, mental health,
productivity, and social relationships in adolescents, with a focus on identifying strategies for
promoting healthy screen use habits (Király et al., 2019). By examining the impact of screen
time on adolescents' well-being, this study seeks to contribute to the development of evidence- based guidelines for screen time use (Hinkley et al., 2012).
Furthermore, this study aims to investigate the potential benefits of screen time, such as
improved social connections and access to educational resources (Best et al., 2014). The
findings of this study will also inform the development of interventions aimed at reducing the
negative effects of excessive screen time on adolescents' mental health and well-being (Carter
et al., 2016).
Ultimately, this study seeks to provide insights into the complex relationship between screen
time and adolescents' well-being, with a focus on promoting healthy screen use habits and
improving overall well-being (Twenge & Campbell, 2018).
The purpose of this study is to provide insights into the impact of screen time on adolescents'
well-being and to identify strategies for promoting healthy screen use habits among
adolescents."
Problem Description
The widespread adoption of smartphones and social media has led to a significant increase in
screen time among adolescents. Excessive screen time has been linked to a range of negative
outcomes, including decreased mental health, reduced productivity, and impaired social
relationships (Twenge & Campbell, 2018; Király et al., 2019). Despite these concerns, many
adolescents struggle to balance their screen time with other aspects of their lives, leading to a
range of negative consequences.
The problem is complex and multifaceted, involving individual, social, and environmental
factors. Adolescents may feel pressure from their peers to spend more time on social media,
while also facing expectations from parents and educators to use digital technologies for
educational purposes (Best et al., 2014). Furthermore, the constant availability of digital
technologies can lead to a sense of perpetual connectedness, making it difficult for adolescents
to disconnect and engage in other activities (Carter et al., 2016). The consequences of excessive
screen time can be severe, including increased symptoms of anxiety, depression, and loneliness
(Orben & Przybylski, 2019). Furthermore, excessive screen time can also lead to decreased
physical activity, poor sleep quality, and reduced attention span (Hinkley et al., 2012).
Therefore, it is essential to investigate the impact of screen time on adolescents’ mental health,
productivity, and social relationships, and to identify strategies for promoting healthy screen
use habits.
Research Objectives
The objectives of this study are to:
1. Investigate the relationship between screen time and mental health in adolescents.
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Susan, K. (2025). The Digital Dilemma: Balancing Phone Time and Real Life in the Age of Social Media. Advances in Social Sciences Research Journal,
12(03). 103-108.
URL: http://dx.doi.org/10.14738/assrj.1203.18402
2. Examine the impact of screen time on adolescents’ productivity and social relationships.
3. Identify strategies for promoting healthy screen use habits among adolescents.
4. Explore the role of parental involvement in shaping adolescents’ screen use habits.
5. Develop evidence-based guidelines for screen time use among adolescents.
These objectives will guide the research methodology and data analysis, ensuring a
comprehensive understanding of the research topic.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
Participants
The study recruited a sample of 1000 adolescents aged 13-18 years, selected from a random
sample of high schools in the United States. Participants were recruited through a combination
of online advertisements and in-school promotions.
Data Collection
Data was collected through a combination of online surveys and focus group discussions.
Online Survey
The online survey was designed to collect quantitative data on adolescents’ screen time habits,
mental health, and social relationships. The survey consisted of standardized questionnaires,
including:
• Screen Time Questionnaire (STQ): Assessed participants’ screen time habits, including
duration, frequency, and type of screen-based activities.
• Mental Health Inventory (MHI): Assessed participants’ mental health symptoms,
including anxiety, depression, and stress.
• Social Relationships Scale (SRS): Assessed participants’ social relationships, including
quality of relationships with family and friends.
Focus Group Discussions
Focus group discussions were conducted to collect qualitative data on adolescents’ experiences
and perceptions of screen time. A total of 10 focus groups were conducted, each consisting of
8-10 participants. Focus groups were facilitated by a trained moderator and lasted
approximately 60 minutes.
Data Analysis
Quantitative Data Analysis:
Quantitative data was analyzed using descriptive statistics and inferential statistics, including:
• Regression analysis: Examined the relationship between screen time and mental health
symptoms.
• Correlation analysis: Examined the relationship between screen time and social
relationships.
Qualitative Data Analysis:
Qualitative data was analyzed using thematic analysis, which involved:
• Coding: Identifying and labeling themes and patterns in the data.
• Theme identification: Identifying and interpreting themes and patterns in the data.