Research on How Excessive Internet Use Affects Teen Loneliness

A study published in Psychology Research and Behavior Management investigated how problematic internet use (PIU) in adolescents affects their feelings of loneliness. The study surveyed 2,483 adolescents aged 12-17 years across 148 cities.

Researchers used a range of scales to assess PIU, social support, family communication, and loneliness.

Adolescents who spent a lot of time on the internet were more likely to feel lonely. However, if they felt supported by their friends and family, it helped reduce that loneliness, even if they were online a lot. The study also showed that communication with family was important in helping teens feel less lonely.

Here, we understand how important it is for teens to have strong family relationships and support from others. The study also points out that when teens use the internet too much, it can replace real emotional connections.

Understanding the Research

This study looked at how problems with internet use, loneliness, social support, and family communication are connected in teenagers. The researchers surveyed teens from cities, towns, and villages across many parts of China.

The survey focused on the following:

• How much time do teens spend online
• How lonely they felt
• How much support they felt from family and friends
• How well they communicated with their families.

These were the specific findings:

• Problematic internet use (PIU) directly increases loneliness in adolescents. This supports previous research that links excessive online engagement with feelings of isolation. At the same time, it reduces their perception of social support and the quality of family communication.
• Feeling supported by others and good family communication can both help reduce loneliness. They also lessen the negative effects of spending too much time online.
• Completely cutting teens off from the internet might make them feel more lonely. Instead, helping them with support and communication is a better way to promote healthy internet use.

Practical Strategies for Parents and Caregivers

To help your teen manage their internet use, here are some tips:

Encourage open and positive communication

Make sure your teen feels comfortable sharing their online experiences. Instead of judging or criticizing their internet habits, show curiosity about the topic.

Have regular conversations about their digital activities, friends they connect with online, and more importantly — how they feel about their online interactions.

Establish guidelines for internet use

This includes limiting screen time or designating tech-free hours during evenings or family meals. These boundaries should be able to strike a balance between online engagement and offline activities.

In fact, ask your teen to participate in discussing rules for internet usage. Since they’re part of the process, they’re more likely to stick to the rules.

Check out these handouts on Healthy Tech Habits For Managing Stress and Screen Time Tips For Parents And Families

Demonstrate balanced internet use

Teens often mirror the behavior they see in their parents. If you want them to prioritize quality time with family and activities involving face-to-face interactions, leading by example is a good start.

Avoid being glued to your own devices during family time or when engaging in conversations with them. Be fully present during discussions.

Plan regular family activities

Busy schedules and work demands often mean less time together. Keep in mind that family activities don’t have to be a grand affair. It’s about prioritizing quality time. Simple activities like a weekly movie night, cooking a meal together, or going for a walk can strengthen family bonds!

The authors suggest that schools, government agencies, and educators should help parents understand the importance of good communication at home.

They recommend teaching parents to talk to their kids about internet use in a supportive way — while also respecting their child’s need for independence.

Support your teen by checking out our Healthy Habits Posters, Coping Skills Worksheets, and Social Skills Handouts. These will help them manage stress, improve communication, and build stronger connections.