From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age

Syed Amin Tabish

doi:doi:10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17

Research Article |

| Peer-Reviewed

From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age

Syed Amin Tabish^*

Published in American Journal of Health Research (Volume 13, Issue 4)

Received: 29 July 2025 Accepted: 11 August 2025 Published: 27 August 2025

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Abstract

Digital addiction among youth has emerged as a maladaptive response to increasingly networked, mobile, and algorithmically curated environments. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the mechanisms, symptomatology, and mental health sequelae associated with compulsive digital engagement in adolescents and young adults. Neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities—particularly heightened reward sensitivity and immature cognitive control—intersect with persuasive design features such as variable rewards, infinite scroll, and social validation to increase susceptibility. Clinically, digital addiction mirrors behavioral addictions, presenting with preoccupation, loss of control, escalation, withdrawal-like irritability, and persistence despite harm. Functional impairments span sleep disruption, academic decline, and relational conflict. Phenotypic expressions include compulsive use of social media, gaming, short-form video, and messaging platforms, often co-occurring and reinforced by ubiquitous smartphone access. Mental health implications are substantial and bidirectional: problematic use both predicts and is predicted by depressive and anxiety symptoms, compounded by sleep curtailment, circadian delay, and cyberbullying exposure. Youth with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) traits or executive function challenges are particularly vulnerable to compulsive loops. Risk is concentrated among early to mid-adolescents, those with internalizing symptoms, poor sleep hygiene, high impulsivity, low parental monitoring, and marginalized youth who rely on digital spaces for social belonging. Contextual factors such as family conflict, academic stress, and online peer dynamics shape trajectories, while socioeconomic and regional disparities modulate expression. Evidence supports multi-level interventions including sleep-focused hygiene, cognitive-behavioral and family-based therapies, school-based curricula promoting metacognitive awareness, and platform-level safeguards. Future research should prioritize longitudinal, phenotype-specific studies and equity-aware frameworks to inform scalable, developmentally attuned responses.

Published in	American Journal of Health Research (Volume 13, Issue 4)
DOI	10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17
Page(s)	248-258
Creative Commons	This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted use, distribution and reproduction in any medium or format, provided the original work is properly cited.
Copyright	Copyright © The Author(s), 2025. Published by Science Publishing Group

Keywords

Digital Addiction, Internet Addiction, Screen Time, Internet Gaming Disorder, Youth Mental Health, Behavioral Addiction, Screen Dependency, Public Health, Adolescents, Fear of Missing Out

1. Background

Digital addiction among youth has evolved from a benign engagement with technology to a pervasive behavioral epidemic, driven by the rapid proliferation of smartphones, social media platforms, and immersive digital environments. The causes are multifaceted, rooted in neurobiological, psychological, and sociocultural dynamics. Dopaminergic reward systems are activated by likes, notifications, and virtual interactions, reinforcing compulsive usage. Adolescents, in particular, are vulnerable due to developmental factors such as identity formation, peer validation, and emotional regulation. The magnitude of the problem is alarming: global surveys indicate that a significant proportion of youth spend upwards of 7-9 hours daily on screens, often at the expense of sleep, academic performance, and physical activity. Implications span cognitive, emotional, and social domains—ranging from attention deficits and anxiety to impaired interpersonal relationships and increased risk of depression. The long-term effects of digital addiction on youth are profound and multifaceted, impacting cognitive development, emotional well-being, physical health, and social functioning. The challenges in addressing digital addiction are compounded by its normalization in society, lack of diagnostic consensus, and the tech industry's vested interest in maximizing user engagement. However, this crisis also presents opportunities for innovative prevention and control strategies. Digital literacy education, parental mediation, and behavioral interventions such as cognitive-behavioral therapy can foster healthier tech habits. Policy-level initiatives, including screen time regulations and ethical design standards, may curb exploitative digital architectures. Ultimately, a multidisciplinary approach—integrating neuroscience, psychology, education, and public health—is essential to mitigate the long-term consequences of digital addiction and to empower youth to reclaim agency over their digital lives in an increasingly connected world.

Digital addiction, marked by compulsive use of devices like smartphones, gaming consoles, and social media platforms, poses increasing threats to mental, emotional, and physical health. Though not formally classified in the DSM-5 (except Internet Gaming Disorder), it shares traits with substance addiction—withdrawal, tolerance, and impaired control. Adolescents and young adults are particularly vulnerable, with excessive screen time linked to disrupted sleep, depression, anxiety, and obesity. The normalization of digital behavior hides its dysfunction, emphasizing the urgent need for awareness and early intervention. Overuse affects brain chemistry and child development, while Fear of Missing Out (FOMO) drives compulsive usage and weakens interpersonal bonds. Excessive screen time diminishes resilience and increases risks such as cardiovascular problems and poor emotional regulation. Cultural dynamics and environmental factors like constant connectivity worsen the issue, especially in regions like Asia. Public health efforts must foster digital literacy, emotional support, and systemic interventions aimed at youth and families. Ultimately, promoting healthy tech habits and setting screen boundaries are essential to preserve overall well-being in today’s connected world

[1]

The rise of digital device usage—especially at night—has significantly disrupted healthy sleep patterns across age groups. Late-night screen exposure interferes with melatonin production and circadian rhythms, impairing sleep quality. Emotional stimulation from gaming or social media further delays sleep onset. Excessive screen time has been linked to mood instability, stress, and mobile phone addiction, creating a negative feedback loop that undermines overall well-being. Both adolescents and adults face consequences such as decreased cognitive function, poorer academic performance, and greater mental distress. To counter these effects, suggested interventions include screen curfews, reduced blue light exposure, and digital detox periods. Future research is needed to pinpoint causal relationships and refine strategies that effectively support sleep health in a tech-driven society

[2]

Screen use, especially via mobile phones and tablets, can become addictive when individuals struggle to stop despite trying, often showing signs like withdrawal, conflict, and relapse. Adolescence is a particularly vulnerable period, with data from the U.S. revealing troubling patterns: nearly half of young teens lose track of screen time, a quarter use social media to escape problems or think about it excessively, and many face difficulty reducing their use. Importantly, 11% report screen use interfering with their schoolwork. These behaviors signal a pressing need to investigate screen addiction’s health impacts and craft effective interventions to safeguard adolescent well-being during their critical developmental years

[3]

Over the past few decades, screen time has significantly increased due to shifts in schooling, work, and social life to digital platforms. Many individuals, particularly youth, struggle to disengage from social media, gaming, and other screen-based activities, with some reaching levels of behavioral addiction. Research on nonsubstance addictions highlights diagnostic reliability and brain imaging insights, but treatment resources remain limited. Current interventions use a biopsychosocial framework involving therapy, medication, mindfulness, and support groups. Concerns around the impact of social media on young people are growing, prompting calls for advocacy and further research. Lifestyle medicine and concepts like recovery capital offer promising pathways for recovery, but refined diagnostic criteria and evidence-based treatment strategies are urgently needed

[4]

The COVID-19 pandemic amplified adolescents’ screen exposure and led to lasting mental health challenges, including increased self-harm and suicidal ideation. These effects highlight the need for ongoing, school-based prevention strategies that promote emotional resilience and balanced digital habits. A comprehensive care model that combines physical activity, emotional support, and health education has shown promise in protecting adolescent mental well-being. Nurses play a key role by fostering coping skills and emotional expression, while involving families, peers, and educators creates a strong support system. Collaborative and structured efforts are essential to curb digital overuse and strengthen adolescents’ psychological health in an increasingly digital world

[5]

Electronic addictions include any technology-based addiction with significant clinical impact, yet there's no agreed-upon set of symptoms or criteria. As a result, assessment tools and treatment outcomes vary widely across studies, especially among college populations, hindering the development of consistent strategies. Though some tools show promise in reliability, methodological inconsistencies persist. Interventions such as psychological therapy and exercise have demonstrated short-term symptom reduction, but no single approach has proven superior. Foundational research is needed to clarify whether electronic addictions qualify as primary disorders before establishing effective, evidence-based screening and care methods

[6]

Excessive screen media use among children poses risks to cognitive, language, and socio-emotional development, with studies linking it to impaired executive functioning, reduced sensorimotor skills, and lower academic outcomes. While digital tools can support learning, excessive use and multitasking diminish quality interactions, weaken social skills, and contribute to sleep issues, obesity, and emotional challenges like anxiety and aggression. To promote healthy development, parents and caregivers should set boundaries, encourage offline activities, and model balanced habits, while professionals must implement proactive strategies and awareness efforts in today’s tech-driven environment

[7]

Growing use of social media, video games, and mobile phones among children and adolescents has prompted rising concern about its impact on youth mental health. Most prior research has focused on total screen time, but this study examines longitudinal patterns of addictive use across multiple years. Using validated child-reported data from follow-ups in years 2, 3, and 4, researchers found that high or increasing trajectories of addictive behavior were common in early adolescence. Critically, these patterns were significantly associated with worsened mental health outcomes—including suicidal ideation and behaviors—highlighting the urgency of targeted prevention and intervention strategies

[8]

Over the last twenty years, screens have transformed from productivity aids to constant companions, driving global digital dependency. Smartphones, TVs, and computers influence how we live, with pandemic-driven habits pushing usage even higher—some regions logging over 10 hours daily. This overexposure fuels physical strain, attention issues, and diminished real-world connection, intensified by features like infinite scroll and FOMO. In response, solutions range from personal digital boundaries to national policies like France’s “right to disconnect.” Wellness tools, parental guidance, and intentional tech use offer hope—not by removing screens, but by using them to support, not sabotage, well-being in an ever-connected world

[9]

Digital addiction among teens is a growing concern, with excessive screen time linked to depression, anxiety, sleep disruption, and low self-esteem. Many spend over seven hours daily on devices—especially smartphones and gaming—negatively affecting physical activity, sleep quality, and emotional well-being. The COVID-19 pandemic amplified these habits. Strategies like time limits, the 20-20-20 eye care rule, mindfulness, and offline hobbies are encouraged. Experts stress collaborative efforts between teens, families, educators, and healthcare providers. Surveys such as the Youth Risk Behavior Survey and NHIS-Teen highlight behavioral trends and social factors. The American Academy of Pediatrics promotes balanced media plans, while pediatricians help guide healthier tech habits

[10]

Tech addiction has become a significant concern in today’s connected world, especially among teens, who often spend over seven hours daily on devices excluding schoolwork. This compulsive use—driven by dopamine-triggering feedback loops—leads to reduced attention span, emotional dependency, and increased risks of depression, anxiety, and even suicide-related outcomes. Alarmingly, screen exposure in children under two can cause developmental delays. A recent study highlighted that addiction behaviors, not just screen time, are linked to mental health risks, with marginalized groups showing higher susceptibility. Experts recommend recovery strategies like detox camps, tech-free zones, and personalized media plans. Objective tracking tools, stricter age verification, and family-based interventions are also critical. A nuanced approach—balancing tech’s benefits with conscious use—is essential for safeguarding mental, emotional, and cognitive health in adolescents navigating a screen-saturated environment

[11]

The rising use of social media, video games, and mobile phones among children and adolescents has sparked serious concerns about mental health risks, including suicide-related outcomes. While most research has focused on total screen time, new evidence indicates that addictive patterns of screen use—not just duration—may be more closely linked to emotional and psychological harm in youth. These patterns often emerge in early adolescence and differ by platform, with many teens showing high or increasing levels of compulsive use.

Despite growing awareness, including a warning from the U.S. Surgeon General, addictive screen use trajectories remain poorly understood. Studies suggest these behavioral trends are strongly associated with elevated mental health risks, yet their clinical utility and role in early intervention require further investigation. Moving forward, research should aim to better characterize these trajectories and develop targeted strategies to mitigate their impact—making addiction-focused interventions a potentially vital approach to safeguarding youth mental health

[8]

Screen addiction among adolescents is increasingly linked to harmful mental health outcomes, with compulsive usage patterns proving more detrimental than overall screen time. A U.S. study involving over 4,000 teens found that nearly one-third showed escalating addictive behaviors tied to social media, mobile phones, and gaming, correlating with heightened emotional distress and suicidal ideation. These behaviors—characterized by withdrawal, conflict, and loss of control—impact marginalized youth especially, who often seek identity-affirming spaces online. Experts recommend personalized, culturally sensitive strategies, including media use plans, device-free family time, and stricter age controls. Tailored interventions are key to promoting youth mental health in today’s digital landscape

[11]

Social media is widely used by early adolescents, despite platform age restrictions (minimum 13 years) outlined by the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Rule. Due to limited age verification, many underage users maintain accounts—63.8% under 13 in one U.S. study. While social media offers benefits like peer support and access to information, unregulated use is linked to poor sleep, cyberbullying, substance use, and eating disorders. Usage patterns differ by sex, with girls showing higher and more problematic engagement. Greater regulation, improved parental controls, and pediatric guidance are recommended. Continued research should track platform-specific trends and assess health risks among underage users

[12]

Social media use among children has surged, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, with platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube enabling connection and education during lockdowns. However, this increase poses significant risks for vulnerable youth. A PRISMA-guided scoping review of 68 relevant studies found links to depression, poor diet, and psychological issues as primary concerns. Other issues included sleep disturbances, anxiety, addiction, behavioral problems, and online grooming. Pediatricians, caregivers, and app developers must recognize and address these risks. Greater public and medical awareness, proactive screening, and preventive strategies are essential to mitigate harm and protect young users' health and development

[13]

2. Magnitude of the Problem

Globally, digital addiction is spiralling with the varying degrees of addiction associated with different digital platforms and activities, with smartphone use showing the highest prevalence. Research is needed to investigate the correlation between these addictions and their impacts on mental health and well-being. Global prevalence estimates reveal that 26.99% of individuals are affected by smartphone addiction, followed by social media (17.42%), internet (14.22%), cybersex (8.23%), and game addiction (6.04%), each with corresponding confidence intervals. The study highlights notably higher rates in the Eastern Mediterranean and among low- and lower-middle income countries. Males showed a greater risk for internet and gaming addictions. Over the past two decades, digital addiction has steadily increased, with a sharp surge during the COVID-19 pandemic. As the first comprehensive analysis of its kind, this research maps the global landscape of multiple digital addiction subtypes, uncovering how prevalence varies across economic status, geographic region, gender, publication timeframe, and evaluation methods

[14]

A global meta-analysis explored the prevalence of social media addiction across 63 samples with 34,798 participants from 32 countries, revealing considerable variation influenced by classification methods and cultural factors. Studies using strict monothetic criteria showed a pooled prevalence of 5%, while those applying severe-level cutoffs or polythetic classifications reported 13%. Notably, moderate-level cutoff studies revealed the highest prevalence at 25%. Cultural values significantly affected results: collectivist nations exhibited nearly double the prevalence (31%) compared to individualist ones (14%). The findings emphasize that both diagnostic frameworks and societal norms influence social media addiction estimates, highlighting the need for nuanced interpretation across global contexts

[15]

Evidence-based summaries place global internet addiction around 14%, with higher rates in adolescent samples; other 2025 estimates report 17.9% overall prevalence and 21.8% of users showing moderate-to-severe symptoms, reflecting methodological differences across studies 3. Some industry-facing reports cite even higher figures (e.g., 36.7% of the global population), underscoring the heterogeneity of measures and thresholds in this domain. Average screen exposure is substantial: U.S. adults logged about 7.6 hours daily in 2025, with roughly 2.8 hours on social media

[16-18]

Comorbidity is common. A 2025 meta-view found 57% of people seeking help for internet addiction also reported anxiety or depression, aligning with broader evidence that problematic use often co-occurs with mood and anxiety disorders

[16-18]

3. Demographic Patterns: Age

Risk is steepest in youth and gradually declines with age, though remains nontrivial across the lifespan.

Teens 13-17: ~73% at risk; young adults 18-24: ~71% at risk; early adults 25-34: ~59%; midlife 35-44: ~54%; 45-54: ~40%; 55-64: ~39%; 65+: ~44% (a modest rebound).

In the U.S., “almost constant” online use is reported by ~44% of adults 18-49, versus ~8% of seniors 65+, illustrating cohort differences in intensity of engagement.

East Asian adolescent samples often reach double-digit diagnostic prevalence (about 19-24% in some surveys), highlighting elevated youth vulnerability in certain regions.

Together, these patterns reflect early-life digital immersion, peer dynamics, and platform design that amplifies reinforcement in younger users

[16-18]

4. Demographic Patterns: Region

Table 1. Regional Estimated Prevalence (Demographic Patterns).

Region	Estimated prevalence (2025)
Middle East	31.4%
Southeast Asia	29.2%
South America	22.6%
China (national)	24.9%
North America	15.2%
Western Europe	8.7%
Sub Saharan Africa	6.4%

Regional estimates reflect differences in broadband penetration, mobile-first usage, platform ecosystems, and public awareness/diagnostic practices

[16-18]

5. Why Adolescence Is a Pressure Point

Adolescence sits at the crossroads of heightened reward sensitivity and still-maturing cognitive control. Always on platforms exploit variable rewards, social validation, and personalized feeds, turning ordinary engagement into compulsive loops. The result is not just “more time online,” but patterns marked by loss of control and functional impairment—especially around sleep, school performance, and mood (ICD 11 recognizes gaming disorder; DSM 5 TR lists Internet Gaming Disorder for further study, underscoring clinical salience)

[19, 20]

6. Core Symptoms and Behavioral Patterns

i. Cognitive/affective preoccupation: Persistent thoughts about online content; mood modification via use (to relieve dysphoria or boredom).

ii. Loss of control: Failed attempts to cut back; escalating use (“tolerance”) to achieve the same effect.

iii. Withdrawal-like features: Irritability, restlessness, dysphoria when access is restricted.

iv. Conflict and impairment: Arguments with parents, secrecy, neglect of academics/activities, missed sleep, and daytime dysfunction.

v. Persistence despite harm: Continuation despite grades dropping, social fallout, or health complaints.

vi. Specific phenotypes: Social media overuse (validation seeking, social comparison), gaming disorder (ICD 11 criteria: impaired control, priority given to gaming, continuation despite negative consequences), binge watching/short form video loops, and compulsive scrolling.

These features echo behavioral addiction frameworks while requiring evidence of impairment—not merely high exposure (ICD 11, WHO, 2019; DSM 5 TR, APA, 2022)

[19]

7. Mental Health Implications: What the Evidence Shows

i. Depression and anxiety (bidirectional): Longitudinal work suggests co developing trajectories—youth with higher problematic use often show worsening depressive symptoms over time, while baseline depression can predict later excessive use, indicating mutual reinforcement (Frontiers in Public Health, 2024).

ii. Sleep disturbance: Evening/nighttime device use, blue light exposure, and late night engagement shorten sleep, delay circadian phase, and increase daytime sleepiness—pathways that amplify mood and attention problems (Sleep Medicine Reviews, 2017).

iii. Attention and executive function: Problematic use correlates with inattention and impulsivity; youth with ADHD features show elevated vulnerability to reinforcement heavy apps and games (Journal of Adolescent Health, 2021).

iv. Stress, loneliness, and cyberbullying: Exposure to cyberbullying and high social comparison loads intensify internalizing symptoms; compulsive use can both stem from and worsen loneliness (JAMA Pediatrics, 2019).

v. Comorbidity burden: Meta analytic evidence links problematic smartphone/internet use with higher odds of depression, anxiety, and stress, highlighting clinical screening needs (BMC Psychiatry, 2019).

Taken together, digital addiction in youth is less a single disorder than a syndrome of dysregulated engagement interacting with sleep, mood, and attention systems

[20, 21]

8. Assessment and Differential Diagnosis

i. Screening tools: Internet Addiction Test (IAT), Smartphone Addiction Scale (SAS), Problematic Internet Use Questionnaire (PIUQ), and DSM 5 IGD checklist for gaming.

ii. Impairment focus: Differentiate high but purposeful use (e.g., schoolwork, structured gaming with limits) from problematic use causing measurable sleep loss, academic decline, secrecy, or persistent family conflict.

iii. Contextual factors: Family dynamics, parental mediation style, peer climate, cyberbullying exposure, and offline coping skills.

9. Who Is Most at Risk—and Why

i. Early-mid adolescents: Peak reward sensitivity + weaker inhibitory control increase susceptibility to variable reward designs.

ii. Psychiatric vulnerability: Preexisting depression/anxiety, ADHD traits, and sleep problems both predict and are worsened by problematic use.

iii. Social context: Low parental monitoring, high conflict, or limited offline belonging push youth toward digital compensation (Frontiers in Public Health, 2024; BMC Psychiatry, 2019).

10. Clinical and Public Health Implications

i. Target sleep first: Regular sleep-wake schedules, device curfews, and blue light mitigation improve mood and attention quickly.

ii. Cognitive behavioral strategies: Cue management, time boxing, and values based goal setting reduce compulsive loops; family based interventions align expectations and boundaries.

iii. Platform level responsibility: Default nudges for breaks, transparent time dashboards, and friction for autoplay/notifications reduce reinforcement intensity at the source.

iv. Stepped care: Brief digital hygiene guidance for mild cases; CBT/family therapy for moderate; consider comorbidity focused treatment when depression/anxiety/ADHD are prominent.

11. Modality and Device Factors

Smartphones dominate access—over 96% of internet users go online via phone—concentrating exposure to notifications, social feeds, and short-form video that potentiate habitual checking; global smartphone overuse is estimated around 27%. Among U.S. adults, social media alone accounts for roughly 2.8 hours per day; globally, continuous mobile, app-driven usage patterns are implicated in a majority of overuse cases.

Digital addiction has moved from a fringe concern to a measurable public health challenge, with global prevalence plausibly in the mid teens, substantially higher among adolescents and young adults, and regionally concentrated where mobile access and engagement are most intense. Age gradients, mobile-first modalities, and mental health comorbidities define the epidemiologic profile—and explain why prevention, platform design accountability, and age-tailored interventions are now central to response strategies.

12. Risk Factors

Several interrelated factors contribute to digital addiction among youth:

1. Individual-Level Factors:

i. Age: Adolescents and young adults (18-24) are most affected due to high digital engagement.

ii. Psychological traits: Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and emotional dysregulation are strongly correlated.

iii. Gender: Some studies suggest males may be more prone to gaming addiction, while females may lean toward social media overuse.

2. Family and Social Environment:

i. Parental modeling: Children of parents who frequently use digital devices are more likely to develop similar habits.

ii. Poor parental relationships and lack of supervision increase vulnerability.

iii. Peer pressure and social comparison, especially on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, exacerbate compulsive behaviors.

3. School and Community Factors:

i. Bullying and social isolation can drive youth toward digital escapism.

ii. Urban residency and access to high-speed internet correlate with higher addiction rates.

iii. Vulnerable Populations.

4. Certain groups are disproportionately affected:

i. Adolescents and Young Adults: Due to developmental sensitivity and identity formation, they are more susceptible to digital overuse.

ii. Children in Urban Settings: Greater access to devices and fewer outdoor activities increase screen time.

iii. Students with Academic Pressure: Use digital platforms for stress relief, which can spiral into dependency.

iv. Youth with Mental Health Issues: Those already experiencing anxiety or depression are more likely to seek digital distractions.

13. Mental Health Implications

Digital addiction is linked to:

i. Increased rates of anxiety, depression, and sleep disturbances.

ii. Social withdrawal and impaired interpersonal relationships.

iii. Cognitive overload and reduced attention span.

iv. Cyberbullying and exposure to harmful content.

14. Public Health Perspective

Countries like South Korea and China have recognized digital addiction as a public health crisis, implementing detox programs and screen-time regulations. In India, the issue is gaining attention due to its widespread impact on youth mental health and academic performance

[22-25]

15. A Thematic Analysis of Prevalence, Mental Health Implications, Risk Factors, and Interventions

Prevalence and Demographics Digital addiction has emerged as a global behavioral health concern, particularly among youth aged 10-24. Defined as compulsive and excessive engagement with digital platforms—such as smartphones, social media, gaming, and streaming services—this phenomenon reflects a shift from utility to dependency. According to recent global estimates, approximately 14% of the population meets criteria for internet addiction, with prevalence among adolescents ranging from 10% to 20% in some regions. In India, a large-scale survey of school-going adolescents revealed that 10.69% exhibited signs of technology addiction, with smartphone dependency (8.91%) being the most prevalent form. Demographically, adolescents aged 12-18 and young adults aged 18-24 are disproportionately affected. Gender differences are evident: males tend to exhibit higher rates of gaming addiction, while females show greater susceptibility to social media overuse. Urban youth, with greater access to high-speed internet and digital devices, are more likely to develop addictive behaviors than their rural counterparts

[26-30]

1. Symptoms and Mental Health Implications

Digital addiction manifests through symptoms analogous to substance use disorders, including preoccupation, withdrawal, tolerance, and impaired control. Youth affected by digital addiction often experience:

i. Anxiety and Depression: Excessive screen time correlates with elevated levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms, particularly among adolescents who engage in social comparison and experience cyberbullying.

ii. Sleep Disturbances: Late-night device use disrupts circadian rhythms, leading to insomnia and daytime fatigue.

iii. Cognitive Impairment: Reduced attention span, memory deficits, and executive dysfunction are common among digitally addicted youth.

iv. Emotional Dysregulation: Adolescents report irritability, mood swings, and emotional numbness when deprived of digital access. Neuroimaging studies suggest structural changes in the brain regions responsible for reward processing and self-regulation among youth with Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD), reinforcing the biological basis of digital addiction.

2. Risk Factors and Vulnerable Populations

Digital addiction is multifactorial, shaped by individual, familial, and societal determinants. Key risk factors include:

i. Developmental Vulnerability: Adolescents are neurologically and psychologically predisposed to impulsivity and sensation-seeking, making them more susceptible to addictive behaviors.

ii. Mental Health Comorbidities: Youth with pre-existing conditions such as ADHD, depression, or anxiety are at heightened risk.

iii. Family Dynamics: Poor parental supervision, digital modeling by caregivers, and dysfunctional family environments contribute significantly to digital dependency.

iv. Socioeconomic Status: While urban youth have higher exposure, low-income populations may lack access to mental health resources, exacerbating the impact of addiction.

v. Peer Influence and Social Pressures: The desire to conform to digital trends and maintain online visibility fosters compulsive engagement, particularly on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Vulnerable populations include:

vi. Adolescents in urban centers with high digital penetration.

vii. Youth with psychiatric comorbidities.

viii. Children from single-parent or unsupervised households.

ix. Students facing academic stress and social isolation.

3. Existing Interventions and Gaps

Evidence-Based Interventions: Several interventions have been developed to address digital addiction among youth:

i. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT remains the gold standard, targeting maladaptive thought patterns and behaviors. Studies show significant improvements in anxiety, depression, and screen dependency among adolescents undergoing CBT-based programs.

ii. Family-Based Interventions: Strengthening family relationships and communication has proven effective in reducing digital overuse, particularly among younger children.

iii. Digital-Based Interventions: Ironically, digital tools such as mobile apps, web platforms, and virtual reality are being repurposed to deliver therapeutic content. These interventions offer scalability and accessibility, especially in resource-limited settings.

iv. Mindfulness and Lifestyle Modification: Programs incorporating physical activity, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and digital detox strategies have shown promise in improving emotional regulation and reducing screen time.

v. Gaps and Limitations: Despite progress, several gaps hinder the effectiveness and scalability of current interventions:

vi. Limited Generalizability: Most studies are conducted in high-income settings with small sample sizes and short durations, limiting their applicability to diverse populations.

vii. Lack of Integrated Platforms: Interventions often target isolated symptoms rather than offering holistic care. There is a need for integrated models combining psychological, behavioral, and digital tools.

viii. Underrepresentation of LMICs: Only 15% of intervention studies originate from low- and middle-income countries, despite these regions housing the majority of global youth.

ix. Insufficient Longitudinal Data: Few studies assess long-term efficacy or relapse rates, leaving gaps in understanding sustained behavioral change.

x. Technology-Centric Bias: Many interventions focus on reducing screen time without addressing underlying emotional or social triggers. Harm reduction approaches, common in substance abuse treatment, are largely absent.

Digital addiction among youth represents a complex interplay of behavioral, psychological, and societal factors. While interventions such as CBT, family counseling, and digital therapeutics offer promising avenues, significant gaps remain in accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and long-term efficacy. Addressing digital addiction requires a multidisciplinary approach involving clinicians, educators, policymakers, and technologists. Future research must prioritize inclusive, scalable, and integrated solutions, with a focus on longitudinal outcomes and equity-driven frameworks. As digital engagement continues to evolve, safeguarding youth mental health demands proactive and evidence-based strategies.

16. Implications and Consequences

Digital addiction severely impacts mental, physical, cognitive, and social health. Mentally, it's associated with depression, anxiety, sleep disorders, and emotional dysregulation—despite digital tools claiming to enhance connection, they often foster loneliness and isolation. Physically, excessive screen use contributes to obesity, cardiovascular issues, eye strain, and musculoskeletal pain. Cognitively, multitasking reduces attention and memory capacity, while socially, overuse strains relationships, promotes family conflict, and increases exposure to toxic online environments. Users may experience stress and distorted self-image from constant comparisons on social media. Although digital addiction shares traits with other behavioral addictions, its pervasive, normalized presence and the design of digital platforms give it distinct challenges in the modern world.

17. Unique Aspects of Digital Addiction

Digital addiction aligns with behavioural addiction but stands apart due to its pervasiveness and complexity. Digital devices are integral to daily life, making abstinence harder than with other addictions. Their multifaceted use—for socializing, entertainment, and productivity—blurs healthy boundaries. Social reinforcement through likes and comments mimics slot machine rewards, while infinite scroll and autoplay drive compulsive behaviour. Neurobiological studies reveal activation of dopamine-driven reward pathways in the limbic system, explaining cravings, mood shifts, and the struggle to disconnect. These unique traits demand tailored interventions to manage and prevent technology overuse in today’s hyperconnected world.

18. Interventions Required

Psychological & Therapeutic Interventions

i. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): Helps individuals recognize and change maladaptive digital habits and thought patterns.

ii. Mindfulness-Based Digital Use Reduction (MBDUR): Encourages present-moment awareness to reduce compulsive screen use.

iii. Psychoeducation: Teaching users and families about the risks and signs of digital addiction fosters early recognition and action.

iv. Family & School-Based Strategies.

v. Parental Monitoring & Media Plans: Setting screen time limits, creating tech-free zones, and modeling healthy tech use are proven to reduce problematic behaviour.

vi. School-Based Digital Literacy Programs: Educating students about responsible tech use and promoting offline activities builds resilience.

vii. Encouraging Boredom & Creativity: Allowing children to experience boredom can spark imagination and reduce reliance on digital entertainment.

viii. Lifestyle & Behavioural Adjustments.

ix. Digital Detox Days: Scheduled breaks from screens help reset habits and reduce dependency.

x. Promoting Offline Activities: Sports, arts, and social events offer fulfilling alternatives to screen time.

xi. Mindful Tech Use: Using apps to track screen time and practicing intentional engagement can curb compulsive behaviour.

xii. Emerging & Clinical Approaches.

xiii. Pharmacological Treatments: In severe cases, medication may be considered alongside therapy.

xiv. Neuromodulation & Brain-Based Therapies: Experimental treatments targeting brain circuits involved in addiction are under study.

19. Future Trends in Prevention

Efforts to prevent digital addiction now span education, technology, AI, and community-based models. Schools are introducing digital wellness programs that teach children critical thinking, emotional regulation, and healthy screen habits from an early age. Developers are shifting toward ethical design by reducing features like infinite scroll and adding break prompts or usage reminders to foster conscious tech use. AI-powered tools monitor digital behavior in real time, offering tailored feedback and support alerts. Meanwhile, community-led initiatives and local campaigns are encouraging offline engagement through events, digital detox groups, and awareness efforts that promote balanced lifestyles and social connection.

20. Future Trends in Treatment

Modern approaches to treating digital addiction are increasingly tech-integrated and personalized. Teletherapy and virtual support tools expand access to remote areas, offering video sessions and AI-based assessments. FDA-approved recovery apps provide digital CBT, mood tracking, and relapse prevention. Personalized treatment plans use genetic testing and machine learning to fine-tune interventions. Non-invasive methods like neurofeedback and TMS aim to regulate brain activity and reduce cravings. Wearable devices monitor biometrics like stress and sleep, helping therapists adapt care in real time. Broader health systems now prioritize dual diagnosis treatments and long-term recovery strategies such as housing and social reintegration support.

21. Conclusion

Digital addiction among youth represents a complex interplay of behavioral, psychological, and societal factors. The proliferation of digital technologies has transformed communication, education, and entertainment. However, this transformation has also given rise to digital addiction—a behavioral pattern marked by compulsive engagement with smartphones, social media, gaming, and streaming services. Increasingly recognized as analogous to substance use disorders, digital addiction exhibits similar features such as tolerance, withdrawal, and impaired control. Among youth, this phenomenon poses significant risks to psychological, emotional, and social well-being. While interventions such as CBT, family counseling, and digital therapeutics offer promising avenues, significant gaps remain in accessibility, cultural sensitivity, and long-term efficacy. Addressing digital addiction requires a multidisciplinary approach involving clinicians, educators, policymakers, and technologists. Future research must prioritize inclusive, scalable, and integrated solutions, with a focus on longitudinal outcomes and equity-driven frameworks. Helping youth overcome digital addiction requires a holistic, multi-tiered approach that addresses behavioral, psychological, educational, and environmental factors. Despite promising outcomes, critical gaps persist in generalizability, inclusivity, and long-term efficacy. There is a need for integrated, culturally sensitive, and scalable solutions. As digital engagement continues to evolve, safeguarding youth mental health demands proactive and evidence-based strategies.

Abbreviations

DMS-5	The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition
ADHD	Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
FOMO	Fear of Missing Out
CBT	Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
MBDUR	Mindfulness-Based Digital Use Reduction

Author Contributions

Syed Amin Tabish is the sole author. The author read and approved the final manuscript.

Conflicts of Interest

The author declares no conflicts of interest.

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Tabish, S. A. (2025). From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age. American Journal of Health Research, 13(4), 248-258. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17

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Tabish, S. A. From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age. Am. J. Health Res. 2025, 13(4), 248-258. doi: 10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17

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Tabish SA. From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age. Am J Health Res. 2025;13(4):248-258. doi: 10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17

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@article{10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17,
  author = {Syed Amin Tabish},
  title = {From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age
},
  journal = {American Journal of Health Research},
  volume = {13},
  number = {4},
  pages = {248-258},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajhr.20251304.17},
  abstract = {Digital addiction among youth has emerged as a maladaptive response to increasingly networked, mobile, and algorithmically curated environments. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the mechanisms, symptomatology, and mental health sequelae associated with compulsive digital engagement in adolescents and young adults. Neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities—particularly heightened reward sensitivity and immature cognitive control—intersect with persuasive design features such as variable rewards, infinite scroll, and social validation to increase susceptibility. Clinically, digital addiction mirrors behavioral addictions, presenting with preoccupation, loss of control, escalation, withdrawal-like irritability, and persistence despite harm. Functional impairments span sleep disruption, academic decline, and relational conflict. Phenotypic expressions include compulsive use of social media, gaming, short-form video, and messaging platforms, often co-occurring and reinforced by ubiquitous smartphone access. Mental health implications are substantial and bidirectional: problematic use both predicts and is predicted by depressive and anxiety symptoms, compounded by sleep curtailment, circadian delay, and cyberbullying exposure. Youth with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) traits or executive function challenges are particularly vulnerable to compulsive loops. Risk is concentrated among early to mid-adolescents, those with internalizing symptoms, poor sleep hygiene, high impulsivity, low parental monitoring, and marginalized youth who rely on digital spaces for social belonging. Contextual factors such as family conflict, academic stress, and online peer dynamics shape trajectories, while socioeconomic and regional disparities modulate expression. Evidence supports multi-level interventions including sleep-focused hygiene, cognitive-behavioral and family-based therapies, school-based curricula promoting metacognitive awareness, and platform-level safeguards. Future research should prioritize longitudinal, phenotype-specific studies and equity-aware frameworks to inform scalable, developmentally attuned responses.},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age

AU  - Syed Amin Tabish
Y1  - 2025/08/27
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17
T2  - American Journal of Health Research
JF  - American Journal of Health Research
JO  - American Journal of Health Research
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PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2330-8796
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17
AB  - Digital addiction among youth has emerged as a maladaptive response to increasingly networked, mobile, and algorithmically curated environments. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the mechanisms, symptomatology, and mental health sequelae associated with compulsive digital engagement in adolescents and young adults. Neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities—particularly heightened reward sensitivity and immature cognitive control—intersect with persuasive design features such as variable rewards, infinite scroll, and social validation to increase susceptibility. Clinically, digital addiction mirrors behavioral addictions, presenting with preoccupation, loss of control, escalation, withdrawal-like irritability, and persistence despite harm. Functional impairments span sleep disruption, academic decline, and relational conflict. Phenotypic expressions include compulsive use of social media, gaming, short-form video, and messaging platforms, often co-occurring and reinforced by ubiquitous smartphone access. Mental health implications are substantial and bidirectional: problematic use both predicts and is predicted by depressive and anxiety symptoms, compounded by sleep curtailment, circadian delay, and cyberbullying exposure. Youth with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) traits or executive function challenges are particularly vulnerable to compulsive loops. Risk is concentrated among early to mid-adolescents, those with internalizing symptoms, poor sleep hygiene, high impulsivity, low parental monitoring, and marginalized youth who rely on digital spaces for social belonging. Contextual factors such as family conflict, academic stress, and online peer dynamics shape trajectories, while socioeconomic and regional disparities modulate expression. Evidence supports multi-level interventions including sleep-focused hygiene, cognitive-behavioral and family-based therapies, school-based curricula promoting metacognitive awareness, and platform-level safeguards. Future research should prioritize longitudinal, phenotype-specific studies and equity-aware frameworks to inform scalable, developmentally attuned responses.
VL  - 13
IS  - 4
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Syed Amin Tabish

Sher-i-Kashmir Institute of Medical Sciences, Srinagar, India

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http://orcid.org/0000-0002-7379-6121

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Table 1. Regional Estimated Prevalence (Demographic Patterns)

Table 1. Regional Estimated Prevalence (Demographic Patterns).

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Tabish, S. A. (2025). From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age. American Journal of Health Research, 13(4), 248-258. https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17

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Tabish, S. A. From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age. Am. J. Health Res. 2025, 13(4), 248-258. doi: 10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17

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Tabish SA. From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age. Am J Health Res. 2025;13(4):248-258. doi: 10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17

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@article{10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17,
  author = {Syed Amin Tabish},
  title = {From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age
},
  journal = {American Journal of Health Research},
  volume = {13},
  number = {4},
  pages = {248-258},
  doi = {10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17},
  url = {https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17},
  eprint = {https://article.sciencepublishinggroup.com/pdf/10.11648.j.ajhr.20251304.17},
  abstract = {Digital addiction among youth has emerged as a maladaptive response to increasingly networked, mobile, and algorithmically curated environments. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the mechanisms, symptomatology, and mental health sequelae associated with compulsive digital engagement in adolescents and young adults. Neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities—particularly heightened reward sensitivity and immature cognitive control—intersect with persuasive design features such as variable rewards, infinite scroll, and social validation to increase susceptibility. Clinically, digital addiction mirrors behavioral addictions, presenting with preoccupation, loss of control, escalation, withdrawal-like irritability, and persistence despite harm. Functional impairments span sleep disruption, academic decline, and relational conflict. Phenotypic expressions include compulsive use of social media, gaming, short-form video, and messaging platforms, often co-occurring and reinforced by ubiquitous smartphone access. Mental health implications are substantial and bidirectional: problematic use both predicts and is predicted by depressive and anxiety symptoms, compounded by sleep curtailment, circadian delay, and cyberbullying exposure. Youth with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) traits or executive function challenges are particularly vulnerable to compulsive loops. Risk is concentrated among early to mid-adolescents, those with internalizing symptoms, poor sleep hygiene, high impulsivity, low parental monitoring, and marginalized youth who rely on digital spaces for social belonging. Contextual factors such as family conflict, academic stress, and online peer dynamics shape trajectories, while socioeconomic and regional disparities modulate expression. Evidence supports multi-level interventions including sleep-focused hygiene, cognitive-behavioral and family-based therapies, school-based curricula promoting metacognitive awareness, and platform-level safeguards. Future research should prioritize longitudinal, phenotype-specific studies and equity-aware frameworks to inform scalable, developmentally attuned responses.},
 year = {2025}
}

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TY  - JOUR
T1  - From Evolution to Obsession: Understanding Digital Addiction Among Youth in the Modern Age

AU  - Syed Amin Tabish
Y1  - 2025/08/27
PY  - 2025
N1  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17
DO  - 10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17
T2  - American Journal of Health Research
JF  - American Journal of Health Research
JO  - American Journal of Health Research
SP  - 248
EP  - 258
PB  - Science Publishing Group
SN  - 2330-8796
UR  - https://doi.org/10.11648/j.ajhr.20251304.17
AB  - Digital addiction among youth has emerged as a maladaptive response to increasingly networked, mobile, and algorithmically curated environments. This narrative review synthesizes current evidence on the mechanisms, symptomatology, and mental health sequelae associated with compulsive digital engagement in adolescents and young adults. Neurodevelopmental vulnerabilities—particularly heightened reward sensitivity and immature cognitive control—intersect with persuasive design features such as variable rewards, infinite scroll, and social validation to increase susceptibility. Clinically, digital addiction mirrors behavioral addictions, presenting with preoccupation, loss of control, escalation, withdrawal-like irritability, and persistence despite harm. Functional impairments span sleep disruption, academic decline, and relational conflict. Phenotypic expressions include compulsive use of social media, gaming, short-form video, and messaging platforms, often co-occurring and reinforced by ubiquitous smartphone access. Mental health implications are substantial and bidirectional: problematic use both predicts and is predicted by depressive and anxiety symptoms, compounded by sleep curtailment, circadian delay, and cyberbullying exposure. Youth with ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder) traits or executive function challenges are particularly vulnerable to compulsive loops. Risk is concentrated among early to mid-adolescents, those with internalizing symptoms, poor sleep hygiene, high impulsivity, low parental monitoring, and marginalized youth who rely on digital spaces for social belonging. Contextual factors such as family conflict, academic stress, and online peer dynamics shape trajectories, while socioeconomic and regional disparities modulate expression. Evidence supports multi-level interventions including sleep-focused hygiene, cognitive-behavioral and family-based therapies, school-based curricula promoting metacognitive awareness, and platform-level safeguards. Future research should prioritize longitudinal, phenotype-specific studies and equity-aware frameworks to inform scalable, developmentally attuned responses.
VL  - 13
IS  - 4
ER  -

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