Publication Date
Spring 2025
Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts (MA)
Department
Psychology
Advisor
Gregory Feist; David Schuster; Erin Woodhead
Keywords
digital well-being;intervention;problematic internet use;screen time
Abstract
This thesis examines a 28-day self-monitoring intervention to reduce problematic internet use among undergraduate Instagram users. A quasi-experimental factorial mixed design with a repeated measures component was used, with participants split into an experimental group (daily Instagram screen time logging) and a control group (reporting Instagram interactions). Problematic Internet use was measured using the Generalized Problematic Internet Use Scale 2 (GPIUS2). Results showed no reduction in problematic internet use in the experimental group compared to the control, nor a correlation between screen time changes and problematic internet use. However, the experimental group showed a modest decrease in mean screen time from week 1 to week 4. No gender differences were found. Monitoring screen time alone may not reduce problematic internet use. Future research should explore more comprehensive interventions addressing online social interaction preferences, mood regulation, alternative self-monitoring methods, and individual differences to promote healthier digital well-being.
Recommended Citation
Campigli, Cade T., "Understanding User Behaviors: Impact of a 28-Day Intervention on Screen Time and Problematic Internet Use" (2025). Master's Theses. 5640.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.31979/etd.7zud-sjwm
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_theses/5640
