The Psychological Toll of Internet Addiction: A Review of Mental Health Challenges Among Adolescents and Implications for SDG-3

Abstract

As the internet has become an integral part of adolescent life, serving as a platform for generating insights on education, socialization, and entertainment, this study is an  attempt towards a detailed investigation about the current scenario of internet addiction among adolescents to suggest implications towards the betterment of SDG 3 fulfillment. Undertaking a  review method of investigation, the study here includes literature in the field of internet addiction among adolescents to draw a parallel association with SDG 3 requirements. With 22 detailed reviews conducted, the study found that internet addiction among adolescents is highly associated with school and family environment, personality traits like loneliness and social exclusion which eventually leads to anxiety and depression. The existence of poor relationships and lack of parental involvement can cause high contributions to developing addiction levels. Bullying victimization and childhood trauma are also significant predictors, often mediated through anxiety and poor inhibitory control The study provides implications for the future that can help align SDG 3 requirements by developing mental health interventions to overcome internet addiction.