Desconexión Digital y Bienestar Psicológico en Adolescentes Tardíos y Adultos Emergentes: Revisión Sistemática

Angel Patricio Herrera-Carrión; Jeny Paulina Aucapiña-Chiquito; Jaime Rodrigo Cubi-Asqui; Selene Yajaira Ramos-Portero

doi:10.70171/vwm7hn44

Authors

Ángel Patricio Herrera-Carrión Universidad Bolivariana del Ecuador Author https://orcid.org/0009-0001-5501-6988
Jeny Paulina Aucapiña-Chiquito Universidad Bolivariana del Ecuador Author https://orcid.org/0009-0009-2234-3649
Jaime Rodrigo Cubi-Asqui Universidad Bolivariana del Ecuador Author https://orcid.org/0009-0006-7280-793X
Selene Yajaira Ramos-Portero Universidad Técnica de Ambato Author https://orcid.org/0009-0004-3928-225X

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70171/vwm7hn44

Keywords:

adolescence, well-being, youth, social media, mental health

Abstract

Justification: The intensive use of smartphones, social media, and other digital platforms has spurred interest in strategies aimed at reducing exposures that are potentially harmful to the mental health of young people. Objective: The study analyzed the effects of digital disconnection, reduction, restriction, and self-regulation on psychological well-being and associated variables in late adolescents and young adults aged 15 to 29. Methodology: A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2020 guidelines in Scopus, PubMed, and Taylor & Francis Online, including publications from 2020 to 2026. Of the 604 records identified, 16 primary studies met the eligibility criteria. Data was extracted using a structured matrix; methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (2018 version); and the findings were synthesized through a narrative synthesis. Results: The effects were most consistent for depressive symptoms, stress, and sleep disturbances, particularly in gradual interventions, nighttime restrictions, and self-regulation programs. General well-being, life satisfaction, loneliness, affect, and fear of missing out showed heterogeneous responses. Conclusion: Digital disconnection was not a universal intervention; its usefulness depended on the modality, duration, adherence, purpose of technology use, and characteristics of the population.

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