Adolescents' online opportunities and risks: a mixed-methods observational study on new communication methods

Background: The widespread adoption of digital technologies has affected the way through which all segments of the population communicate, especially pre-adolescents and adolescents. The correct use of online communication tools among (pre-)adolescents is essential both to increase the personal awareness of their use and to reduce, in the long run, the risk of negative outcomes. Methods: The present research project aims to evaluate how much digital technologies are present in the life of (pre-)adolescents, investigating (i) their online social media usage patterns, (ii) the association between Internet use and various behaviors (such as lifestyles), and (iii) some potential psychological predicitori of the dysfunctional use of new technologies. This mixed method study will investigate the above-mentioned areas in a sample of students from primary and secondary schools in northern Italy. Specifically, 12 focus groups (each composed of 8-10 participants) will be conducted, investigating the topics mentioned above. We will also administer a survey to a representative sample of 2000 students, which will investigate socio-demographics, the role of technology in daily life (through ad hoc questions), and potential psychological predictors - such as moral disengagement and personality - related to the use of new technologies (through valid and reliable selfreport questionnaires). Findings and Discussion: Findings from this study may help policy makers, educators, teachers, and mental health professionals to better understand the adolescents’ online and offline communication patterns and, potentially, to design interventions for those at a greater risk of negative long-term outcomes.