Digital Parenting for Adolescent Well-being: Preventive Strategies to Mitigate Technology-Related Risks and Promote Healthy Family Dynamics

Abstract

The increasing integration of digital technology into everyday life has significantly influenced parenting practices, especially concerning adolescents' screen time and online behaviors. Unregulated digital engagement has been associated with adverse health outcomes, including sleep disturbances, reduced physical activity, and social withdrawal. This paper examines the concept of digital parenting within the framework of preventive healthcare, outlining strategies to mitigate risks associated with excessive technology use while promoting balanced family dynamics. The discussion is supported by global health recommendations, including those from the World Health Organization (WHO), and empirical evidence on the psychological and behavioral implications of digital overuse. The paper explores the phenomenon of "technoference" and its impact on parent-child relationships, highlighting the need for structured family interventions to address digital addiction. Practical recommendations for establishing technology-related boundaries, fostering digital literacy, and promoting parental engagement in children's online experiences are discussed. By adopting evidence-based strategies, parents can safeguard adolescent well-being and ensure healthy interactions with technology.