Adicción a internet en adolescentes: Perspectivas desde la salud, el deporte y la educación

Abstract

Today, the internet plays a key role in shaping adolescent identity, and its compulsive use can lead to internet addiction (IA), affecting habits such as sleep, eating, and social interaction. IA reduces resilience, and in the absence of family support, young people turn to digital environments as an emotional substitute, deepening their dependency. The level of compulsivity and the difficulty in forming real-life relationships mean that schools must play a fundamental role by implementing critical digital literacy programs that teach how to manage internet use, involving both teachers and families. Internet addiction is heterogeneous, so flexible strategies adapted to each context are required. Collective physical activity helps prevent dependency by fostering a sense of belonging and emotional regulation. In conclusion, addressing IA demands an interdisciplinary effort between schools, the community, and families, promoting support and a balance between the digital world and everyday life, as well as public educational policies that structure a comprehensive intervention for adolescent well-being.