Virtual behaviors affecting adolescent mental health: The usage of Internet and mobile phone and cyberbullying

Abstract

Problem An important environmental factor affecting adolescents today is undoubtedly technological tools. This descriptive and cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the relationship of adolescents’ Internet and mobile phone usage, cyberbullying behaviors, and their self-reported mental health.

Methods The sample of the study consisted of a total of 426 students including 215 male students and 211 female students. A questionnaire was prepared by the researcher to determine the sociodemographic and personal characteristics and virtual behavioral characteristics of individuals. The Brief Symptom Inventory was used to determine the participants’ mental status.

Findings It was found that adolescents’ daily Internet usage duration, Internet usage purpose, the place where they use Internet, cyberbullying, and exposure to cyberbullying were related to the adolescents’ self-reported mental health (p < .05).

Conclusion Several aspects of the virtual behaviors of the adolescents were associated with their sense of mental health issues. In this context, the school health nurse should raise awareness among adolescents about the use of technology and how it might impact their mental wellbeing.