Excessive internet use, characterized by neglecting essential activities like eating, sleeping, and exercising, has been identified as a factor contributing to increased school absenteeism among teenagers, according to recent research conducted in Finland. The study, which involved over 86,000 adolescents aged 14-16, revealed that girls were more prone to excessive internet use compared to boys, potentially due to their higher engagement with social media platforms.
Although girls showed a higher tendency towards excessive internet use, boys were more likely to report truancy or absence from school, while girls reported more absences due to medical reasons. Protective factors against excessive internet use and consequent school absenteeism included getting the recommended 8-10 hours of sleep, engaging in regular physical activity, and maintaining a trusting relationship with parents with whom concerns could be shared.
The research, published in the journal Archives of Disease in Childhood, highlighted the importance of addressing excessive internet use among adolescents, emphasizing the role of parental support, adequate sleep, and physical activity in mitigating the risk of school absenteeism. While the study identified associations, it underscored the need for further investigation to establish a causal relationship between excessive internet use and school absenteeism, offering valuable insights for professionals working in school health and well-being services.
Post Your Comments