Indicators of Healthy Digital Technology Use in Adolescents: A Qualitative Perspective
Keywords:
Healthy digital technology use, adolescents, digital well-being, online safety, digital literacyAbstract
Objective: This study aimed to explore the indicators of healthy digital technology use among adolescents.
Methods and Materials: A qualitative research design with an exploratory approach was employed to capture adolescents’ lived experiences and perceptions of healthy digital technology use. Nineteen adolescents aged 13–18 years from Tunisia participated, selected through purposive sampling to ensure diverse socio-demographic representation. Semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted until theoretical saturation was reached, with each interview lasting 45–60 minutes. All sessions were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analyzed using thematic analysis supported by NVivo 14 software. The analysis followed an inductive coding process, identifying categories, subcategories, and open codes that reflected participants’ narratives. Ethical procedures, including informed consent and confidentiality, were strictly observed.
Findings: Analysis revealed three overarching themes: Balanced and Mindful Technology Engagement, Positive Social and Emotional Outcomes, and Critical and Safe Digital Literacy. Subthemes included setting usage boundaries, purposeful digital use, time management skills, recognizing overuse signs, mindful online habits, healthy online communication, strengthening offline relationships, emotional self-regulation, digital empathy and support, positive digital identity, inspiring content exposure, evaluating online information, privacy and security awareness, managing online risks, technical problem-solving skills, responsible content creation, understanding digital footprints, and adherence to cyber ethics. Participants described strategies such as device-free times, prioritizing educational content, proactive privacy management, and selective exposure to motivational resources.
Conclusion: Healthy adolescent digital technology use is shaped less by the quantity of screen time and more by the intentionality, quality, and contextual appropriateness of engagement.
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