The influence of digital parenting on adolescent Internet use in India: A scoping review

Abstract The rapid digitalization of Indian society in the past two decades has amplified the need for effective digital parenting to mitigate risks associated with adolescent Internet activities. This scoping review investigates the influence of digital parenting approaches, specifically parenting styles and mediation strategies, on the Internet use (IU) of adolescents in India. The review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Literature searches were conducted in fifteen databases for empirical studies on digital parenting approaches associated with IU among adolescents in India, published since inception till 2024, in English, were included. A total of 1434 non-duplicate records were identified, and six studies fulfilled the eligibility criteria. Authoritative parenting styles and active mediation were most effective in fostering balanced IU, whereas permissive and neglectful parenting styles often resulted in unintended consequences such as secrecy and defiance among adolescents regarding their IU. Restrictive mediation showed no effect on IU. Cultural values and the digital divide significantly influenced digital parenting approaches and adolescent IU. While the review identified a limited number of studies on digital parenting approaches associated with adolescent IU in the Indian context, this must be further evidenced. This review underscores the importance of balanced, culturally sensitive digital parenting. It provides actionable recommendations for policymakers, mental health practitioners, educators, and parents to promote digital literacy, cyber safety, and adolescent well-being. The review highlighted gaps in longitudinal research, rural representation, parental and adolescent perspectives, parental digital proficiency, and family values.