Social Group Work Practice in Coping with Problematic Technology Use in Adolescents: A Mixed Method Research

Abstract

Problematic technology use is a growing concern among adolescents, with those aged 12-18 being particularly vulnerable. This study aims to investigate the technology usage habits of students, assess their addiction levels, and mitigate any problematic patterns. Conducted at a pilot high school in Ankara, Türkiye, the research involved 630 students aged 14-17. Quantitative data collection utilized the Personal Information Form, Technology Addiction Scale, and Technological Addiction Scale. Qualitative data collection included selecting 10 students for group social work sessions. Quantitative data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS, while NVIVO was used for qualitative analysis. The study identified high, medium, and low levels of technology addiction among students, highlighting psycho-social difficulties such as social exclusion, impaired functionality, difficulty in controlling technology use, and deprivation. Applying a cognitive-behavioral approach, group social work sessions in the form of psycho-educational groups proved effective in addressing problematic technology use in adolescents. The findings were contextualized within existing literature, with recommendations for future research including the inclusion of control groups and exploration of different therapeutic approaches in group studies.