# Technology-Based Parenting and Digital Media Use: Adolescents’ Health in a Large, Cross-Sectional Study in Northern Italy

## TL;DR

This study explores how technology-based parenting and digital media use affect adolescent health in Northern Italy, finding age-specific patterns and implications for well-being.

## Contribution

The study identifies age-specific relationships between technology-based parenting, digital media use, and health outcomes in adolescents.

## Key findings

- Digital media use increases with age, while technology-based parenting peaks at age 11.
- Late adolescents with TBP show better sleep and physical activity when media use is controlled.
- Early adolescents benefit from strong parent-child relationships to mitigate mental health symptoms.

## Abstract

Background: Extended digital media consumption affects the mental and overall health of children and adolescents. The role of technology-based parenting (TBP) in limiting or controlling digital media use in this context is controversial. Methods: A representative sample of 5832 parents of schoolchildren aged 6 to 17 participated in an anonymous online survey in 2025. Correlation analysis identified simple associations with health-related parameters, and ANOVA models examined the relationship between TBP, digital media use and health-related parameters across children, early adolescents and late adolescents. Results: Digital media use increased with age, whereas TBP peaked at 11 years of age. In children, both variables were positively associated, but for late adolescents, the association was negative. For early adolescents, both factors were related to mental health symptoms. In late adolescents, both factors are related to sleep duration and physical activity. Social support was positively associated with TBP in early adolescents and negatively associated with digital media use in children and late adolescents. ANOVA showed that late adolescents using digital media between 2.5 and 3.5 h a day slept more when controlled by TBP. Conclusion: Children should limit their digital media use. Early adolescents need strong child–parent relationships. Late adolescents can achieve a healthier lifestyle with TBP. Age-specific information campaigns and intervention programs can support families in managing digital media use and promoting well-being.