A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF PARENTAL SELF-EFFICACY AS A PROTECTIVE FACTOR IN MANAGING THE ADOLESCENT DIGITAL DEPENDENCY
Chandrani Goswami1, Dr. Chandita Baruah2
1Research Scholar of Department of Psychology, 2Head and Assistant Professor,
Department of Psychology, Assam Don Bosco University- Tapesia, Sonapur- 782402, India
Abstract: In today’s technologically advanced societies, digital devices have become essential components of our daily lifestyle. While existing research highlights the learning and social interaction opportunities that digital technologies provide to us, a significant proportion of studies remain focused on the negative effects of digital dependency on adolescent’s development and health. As these technologies become increasingly prevalent in families, questions emerge concerning adolescent’s access to these devices and the influence of parental guidance in shaping their usage. The primary aim of this review paper is to explore the role of parental self-efficacy in managing adolescent’s digital dependency and its implications for enhancing mental health and well-being in the digital era. Jones and Prinz, 2005 defined ‘Parental self-efficacy’ as parents’ beliefs in their ability to effectively manage their children’s behavior can be considered as a key determinant for parenting practices. Research shows how parents with high self-efficacy are more likely to actively engage in monitoring adolescent’s digital dependency and set limits on usage of screen time. Parents with high self-efficacy are more likely to establish healthy boundaries for digital usage, practice consistent monitoring, and foster open communication regarding technology use. These practices contribute to lower levels of digital dependency and foster healthier digital engagement among the adolescents. The paper concludes by emphasizing the implication of parent-focused interventions designed to enhance self-efficacy in supporting adolescents’ wellbeing within an increasingly digitalized environment.
Keywords: Parental Self-Efficacy, Parenting practices, Adolescents, Digital Dependency, Well-being.
VOLUME 10 ISSUE 04 2026: 74 – 81