Psychological characteristics of immersion in the digital environment among adolescents’ with varying levels of personal autonomy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.33910/Keywords:
adolescents, personal autonomy, digital environment, immersion, digital competence, social networksAbstract
Introduction. The digital socialization of adolescents necessitates a psychological analysis of personal traits that influence online behavior. This study examines the relationship between adolescents’ personal autonomy and their digital engagement. The hypothesis is that autonomy, defined as the capacity for self-regulation and goal-directed behavior, shapes the style of digital activity.
Materials and Methods. The study involved 100 adolescents aged 12 to 15. The following instruments were used: the Autonomy–Dependence Scale (G. Prygin), the Personal Autonomy Questionnaire (O. Karabanova, N. Poskrebysheva), the ICT Engagement Scale (Tatarko et al., 2020), and the Digital Immersion Index (Regush et al., 2021). Statistical analysis included non-parametric tests (Kruskal–Wallis, Mann–Whitney), Spearman’s correlation, and cluster analysis (Ward’s method).
Results. Significant differences were found between groups of adolescents with different autonomy levels in terms of digital behavior. Adolescents with high autonomy demonstrated more conscious and effective digital behavior, showing higher digital competence and more positive attitudes toward the internet. Adolescents with low autonomy were more active on social media but exhibited lower confidence in the digital environment. Cluster analysis identified four distinct digital behavior types, reflecting different combinations of autonomy and online activity.
Conclusions. The findings underscore the heterogeneity of adolescent digital behavior and highlight personal autonomy as a key psychological factor in digital socialization. These results can inform the development of targeted interventions aimed at preventing internet addiction and enhancing digital literacy, taking into account individual psychological characteristics.
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