Impact of Digital Media Consumption on the Emotional Well-Being of Secondary School Students in Rivers State

The rapid proliferation of digital media has profoundly influenced adolescents’ social and emotional experiences, raising concerns about their mental well-being. This study investigates the impact of digital media consumption on the emotional well-being of secondary school students in Rivers State, Nigeria. A survey research design was employed, collecting data from 330 students across three secondary schools using structured questionnaires, complemented by interviews with teachers. Findings reveal that a majority of students engage in high levels of digital media use, with prolonged exposure linked to mood swings, heightened anxiety, and reduced self-esteem. Teacher observations corroborate these results, highlighting social withdrawal, emotional dysregulation, and dependency on online validation. The study establishes a significant relationship between excessive digital media use and decreased emotional resilience among adolescents. While digital media can offer social connection and emotional support, unregulated engagement may negatively affect mental health. The study recommends promoting digital well-being education, parental guidance, school-based mental health resources, and offline social activities to foster balanced media consumption and enhance emotional resilience. These findings provide actionable insights for educators, parents, and policymakers seeking to support adolescents in navigating the digital environment safely.