The evolution of ICT use by adolescents in recent years: Lights and shadows

Abstract

INTRODUCTION. Recent studies show a generalized use of new technologies (ICT) among adolescents, and the persistence of related disadvantages. Therefore, the evolution of this relationship between young people and technology is worthy of scholarly attention. METHOD. This article compares results obtained in 2013 via a survey completed by a representative sample (1032 participants) of students of compulsory education with the results of a survey with a smaller smaple (235) of similar students completed in 2019. The aim is to observe changes in the use of Internet, its impact on academic performance, and perceived vulnerability to ICT risks. For this comparison, the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) is used, albeit in an exploratory manner. RESULTS. The study showed decreases in both the positive and negative effects of Internet use perceived by the students. It also shows an overall more prudent use of the Internet in the more recent survey, although more students in this survey reported being subjected to online threats. The victims of these threats were also more likely to undergo these problems alone. DISCUSSION. The study confirms the normalization of Internet use shown in previous research, along with a number of negative effects. In light of this dual trend, it seems to be desirable to continue to empower adolescents to make a responsible use of ICT while encouraging those who are affected in a negative way to ask for help.