Intervention programs for the problematic use of the internet and technological devices: a systematic review

Abstract

The intensive use of the Internet and communication technologies among adolescents has increased addiction and/or their problematic use. The innovative and revolutionary development of this technology can have negative effects on the mental and physical health of its users, and it seems to have a greater impact on adolescents. As this is causing a public health problem, the objective of this study was to review the different intervention and prevention programs for this problem in adolescents. A total of 14 programs met the inclusion criteria. The analysis of the programs allows for the identification of effective intervention designs for prevention, and also for the treatment of the current problems derived from the use of the Internet and technological devices among adolescent users.