This report synthesises evidence across 15 empirical studies to examine how information and communication technologies (ICT) influence adolescent well-being.
Findings reveal a nuanced environment where digital interactivity and online environments support youth learning motivation, social connectivity, autonomy, and identity development.
However, excessive or unmediated exposure poses challenges, including risks to mental health, digital dependence, sleep disruption, and reduced overall well-being. By evaluating both positive affordances and digital risks, the report underscores the importance of fostering digital literacy, agency, and supportive scaffolding to help teenagers navigate online environments constructively.
Host project: EU Kids Online
Methodology
The study is a meta-synthesis / systematic review synthesising empirical findings across 15 distinct research studies on adolescent ICT use and well-being.
Country or region of researched population
Czech Republic
Citation
Smahel, D., Lebedíková, M., Lacko, D., Kvardova, N., Mýlek, V., Tkaczyk, M., & Dedkova, L. (2025). Tech & teens: Insights from 15 studies on ICT's impact on well-being [Research report]. London School of Economics and Political Science.
Record created:
21 July 2026
This report synthesises evidence across 15 empirical studies to examine how information and communication technologies (ICT) influence adolescent well-being.
Findings reveal a nuanced environment where digital interactivity and online environments support youth learning motivation, social connectivity, autonomy, and identity development.
However, excessive or unmediated exposure poses challenges, including risks to mental health, digital dependence, sleep disruption, and reduced overall well-being. By evaluating both positive affordances and digital risks, the report underscores the importance of fostering digital literacy, agency, and supportive scaffolding to help teenagers navigate online environments constructively.
Host project: EU Kids Online
Methodology
The study is a meta-synthesis / systematic review synthesising empirical findings across 15 distinct research studies on adolescent ICT use and well-being.
Country or region of researched population
Czech Republic
Citation
Smahel, D., Lebedíková, M., Lacko, D., Kvardova, N., Mýlek, V., Tkaczyk, M., & Dedkova, L. (2025). Tech & teens: Insights from 15 studies on ICT's impact on well-being [Research report]. London School of Economics and Political Science.
Record created:
21 July 2026- risks online digital well-being digital literacy media literacy
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