The relationship between digital addiction and mental resilience in adolescents

Objective: This study aimed to examine the relationship between digital addiction levels and mental toughness among adolescents. Materials and Methods: This research was designed as a cross-sectional, descriptive, quantitative, and correlational study. It was conducted among adolescents studying at various high schools in the city center of Çorum, Turkey. Data were collected using a Sociodemographic Information Form, the Digital Addiction Scale for Adolescents, and the Mental Toughness Scale for Adolescents – Short Form. The obtained data were analyzed through descriptive statistics, group comparisons, correlation, and multiple regression analyses. Results: Female students had significantly higher digital addiction scores compared to males. As daily internet usage increased, the risk of addiction rose markedly. In contrast, parental control over internet use and time spent with family emerged as protective factors that reduced digital addiction. Regarding mental toughness, the mother's educational status and the device used for internet access created significant differences. Students whose mothers had a university degree had lower resilience levels, and those accessing the internet via computer scored lower compared to mobile phone users. No significant associations were found between resilience and gender, number of siblings, daily internet usage, or time spent with family. Conclusion: No direct significant relationship was detected between digital addiction and mental toughness. The findings highlight that family support and parental monitoring play an important role in preventing digital addiction, while mental toughness is a dynamic construct influenced by environmental factors. Therefore, preventive programs at the family, school, and community levels are recommended.