Conceptualizing effective interventions for smartphone addiction among Korean female adolescents

Abstract

This study is the first of its kind to conceptualize effective interventions for smartphone addiction among female adolescents in South Korea using a mixed method concept-mapping approach. The participants were Korean female adolescents (N = 36) who had been referred to an Internet addiction treatment centers due to their smartphone addiction problems. Concept mapping was conducted to collect, organize, and interpret qualitative data using quantitative techniques such as hierarchical cluster analysis and multidimensional scaling. The study found five clusters of effective interventions: involuntary restriction, self-awareness and self-control, school restrictions, peer support, and professional services. This conceptual framework can be utilized in planning and developing interventions for female adolescents with smartphone addiction.