Does Character Strength Have an Influence on Children’s Susceptibility to Technological Addiction? A Systematic Review

TL;DR

This study explores how character strengths may protect children from becoming addicted to technology, based on a review of existing research.

Contribution

This is the first systematic review examining the role of moral values in preventing digital addiction among minors.

Findings

Nine studies were identified showing a link between character strengths and reduced technology addiction in minors.

Character strengths are suggested as protective factors against digital addiction.

Training programs aimed at instilling these values in minors and parents have been explored.

Abstract

Background: The misuse of technology and the consequences of addiction are topics that are increasingly addressed by researchers. Specifically, more attention is being paid to strategies aimed at preventing such addiction in minors. In all likelihood, this is the first systematic review to focus on the role of moral values in preventing minors from developing digital addictions. The aim of the study is to review the scientific research on the issue in order to answer the following questions: (1) Is character strength (or related variables) linked to an increased probability that minors will develop a technology addiction? (2) What types of character strengths protect minors from these problems? (3) What kinds of training programmes have been provided to instil these values in both minors and parents? Methods: The authors systematically examined the peer-reviewed literature from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOS), Medline, and Scopus while adhering to the PRISMA statement. Only articles published until 26 April 2025, and which were written in the English language, were reviewed. The search was conducted with no year restrictions. Results: A total of 609 studies were obtained, of which 9 were finally selected. The results provide a complete overview of the presence of moral values as a protective factor against digital addiction. Conclusions: Several challenges remain with regard to enhancing the knowledge of moral values, as well as their importance as an instrument available to minors for their safe interaction with technology.

Figures