Development and validation of an intervention protocol to promote media and information literacy for critical thinking in adolescents’ use of social media

The increasing exposure of adolescents to social media demands their development of critical thinking skills to responsibly deal with online information. Media and Information Literacy for Critical Thinking (MIL-CT) enhances adolescents’ ability to critically assess content, misinformation and digital engagement. In relation to Positive Youth Development (PYD), an MIL-CT intervention has the potential to promote critical thinking skills, reflection, resilience, autonomy, proactiveness, social responsibility, and ethical decision-making in the digital world. The aim of this study was to develop and validate an intervention protocol designed to promote adolescents' critical thinking and key developmental assets essential for adolescents’ positive development in relation to digital environments and social media use. The protocol covers the first phase of a multi-phase research project following the Medical Research Council (MRC) guidance for developing and evaluating complex interventions. The protocol was developed by identifying relevant theories and scientific evidence in literature, and formulating a draft protocol to address adolescents (15–16 years old) and their parents/legal guardians and teachers. The protocol was then validated by a panel of experts and adolescents in three phases, involving: 1) a review of strengths and areas for improvement; 2) collaborative refinement of contents; and 3) final evaluation of the updated protocol's adequacy, engagingness, and accessibility. Co-creation with adolescents ensured the intervention was contextually relevant, aligned with their digital habits, and adapted to the unique challenges they face online. The study presents the protocol development and validation findings, confirming its coherence, adequacy, and relevance for promoting MIL-CT. Among the improvements introduced in the final version of the protocol were the incorporation of real examples of misinformation, the simplification of certain activities, and the integration of more interactive components. Stakeholders highlighted the need for flexible and adaptive contents customizable to the diverse educational needs and digital realities of adolescents. The protocol provides a structured approach for promoting MIL-CT in adolescents, follows MRC guidelines, involves multiple stakeholders, and contributes to the development of evidence-based MIL-CT programs. The intervention will promote Positive Youth Development (PYD) by strengthening adolescents’ critical thinking, resilience, and social responsibility online. By fostering informed decision-making and ethical media engagement, the intervention will empower adolescents in responsibly navigating the digital world, and boost their confidence and capacity for civic participation.