The Digital Media Use Effects Scales for adolescents (d-MUsE Scales): Conceptualization and validation of a screening tool

Abstract

The use of digital media is a crucial aspect of contemporary life for children and adolescents. Evidence suggests that digital media use can yield both positive and negative effects on well-being. Considering dual-factor models of mental health, a functional digital media usage pattern is characterized by low negative effects and high positive effects. Currently, there is no comprehensive measure assessing these effects of digital media use systematically across relevant life domains for adolescents' quality of life, i.e., “Physical Well-Being,” “Mental Well-Being,” “Peers & Social Support,” “School Environment,” and “Autonomy & Relationship with Parents.” In an online survey (n = 1001, aged 16-18), we developed and validated the positive and negative Digital Media Use Effects Scales for Adolescents (d-MUsE-Scales) assessing the perceived effects of digital media use on well-being in different areas of adolescents' lives. The factor structure, scale properties, and construct validity of the d-MUsE Scales were satisfactory and aligned with expectations. The d-MUsE Scales have a broad application, spanning from basic research elucidating mechanisms related to digital media's effects to educational and preventive contexts, as well as diagnostic and treatment settings.