Research on the Negative Emotional Effects of Information Fragmentation on Adolescents

On the basis of the intertwined development of information technology, globalization, and intelligence, the sudden advance of digital media has modified the livelihood of digital natives, and also continuously affects the dissemination and acquisition of information. The influx of massive information fragmentation has generated prosperity in economy and culture, while providing a relatively accessible and accelerated pathway for adolescents to explore new knowledge. Through an extensive literature review, this paper systematically summarizes the negative effects of fragmented information on adolescents, including information anxiety, attention deficit and depression. Adolescence is a unique developmental stage characterised by significant cognitive and emotional growth. However, within their limited cognitive abilities, the inundation of excessive information tends to result in information anxiety. Constant exposure to fragmented information can disrupt the continuity of adolescents' thought processes, causing frequent thought interruptions and making it increasingly difficult for them to concentrate on coherent and comprehensive thinking. In addition, depression has emerged as one of the most prevalent mental health problems among this population. Depression is often exacerbated by negative emotions such as low self-esteem and insecurity resulting from information overload and chronic unfavourable comparisons with others.