A bit of internet might help stressed teens: Study

In August this year, a new research report published in the journal ‘Clinical Psychological Science’ suggested that teenagers (ages 13-17) in medium-low socioeconomic settings might deal better with stress by spending a moderate amount of time online, than those who spend many hours on the internet or avoid digital technology altogether.   

What did the results suggest? 
The results showed that engaging online in moderation after a stressful situation helped teens to bounce back. It aided them to tackle negative emotions, unburden to peers as a way of seeking help, or obtain relief out of virtual interaction at a time when the real world got difficult. However, teenagers who sought to escape the reality by routinely engaging in hours of online interaction after stressful events did not do so well. In fact, their lengthy hours made them more stressed. And teens who did not use the phones at all remained stressed throughout.  

How did the researchers go about it?  
The researchers provided iPhones to more than 200 teenagers living in low socioeconomic settings. The teens were instructed on how to track and report their technology use, stress points, and emotions five times a day for a week. They were to use the iPhones just as they would use their own smartphones. The data was then analysed to compare the emotional states of teenagers who used technology moderately, excessively, or not at all. 

What are the researchers concluding from this?   
For many teenagers, being online is just a way to pass the time. For others, it’s a way to connect and communicate with peer group. Mobile phones and social media help them cope with stressful events since they can strike the right balance between spending time online, and pursuing offline coping activities. According to research lead Kathryn Modecki of Griffith University’s Health Institute and School of Applied Psychology, the research busted the popular assumption that technology is only harmful for teens. It also showed, she said, how teens from disadvantaged backgrounds realise the lack of local support may be replenished with technology, where distance is not a barrier to connect to the right people.