Public Governance Strategies for Addressing the Social Impacts of Excessive Gadget Use among Teenagers

Abstract

This study aims to examine the impact of gadget addiction on the psychological, social, and mental health of adolescents. Gadgets, as modern electronic media, have become an integral part of adolescents' daily lives. However, excessive use of gadgets can cause serious negative impacts, particularly in psychological, social, and mental health aspects. The method used in this study is a literature review with a qualitative descriptive approach, collecting and analyzing various sources of scientific journals, books, and relevant articles from national and international sources. The results of the study indicate that gadget addiction in adolescents causes emotional instability, social isolation, decreased concentration in learning, sleep disorders, the growth of egocentric attitudes, the emergence of cyberbullying phenomena, and various symptoms of mental illness such as depression and anxiety. Triggering factors include individual psychological conditions, an unsupportive family environment, peer pressure, and addictive technology design. The study's conclusions emphasize the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving parents, educators, the government, and technology developers in guiding adolescents to use gadgets wisely to maintain a balance between the digital world and real life.