The internet has become an essential part of everyday life, especially for young people who use it for school, communication, entertainment, and staying informed. Thanks to easily accessible mobile devices, internet access is constant and ubiquitous. Research shows that nearly all adolescents use the internet, yet most of them do not consider their usage to be problematic.
There is no denying that the internet brings many benefits—access to information, learning, easier communication, and entertainment—but excessive use carries risks, including reduced academic performance, social isolation, cyberbullying, and mental health issues such as depression, stress, and low self-esteem.
“Internet addiction” is still not classified as a diagnostic category, so the term “excessive internet use” is more commonly used. This is characterized by constant preoccupation with the internet, a growing need to spend more time online, inability to reduce usage, discomfort when trying to limit time spent online, and staying online longer than intended.
The internet aims to make new information and knowledge more accessible, thus facilitating learning, but it should never replace real social interactions, healthy habits, and basic life needs.
Data from research conducted by the Association NARKO-NE indicating that more than a third of parents are unaware of what information their children access online highlights a lack of parental awareness regarding internet risks and the importance of supervision and limiting children’s access. Parental disinterest and lack of oversight increase the risk of children being exposed to inappropriate content. Most cases of online exploitation occur when children are not under adult supervision.
Today’s children and youth primarily communicate through social media. While this is not inherently negative, it is important to empower them to behave responsibly and safely in the digital space. Instead of completely banning social media, it is crucial to support and guide children, build a relationship of trust, and educate them on safe and responsible internet use. Parents also need education, as completely denying internet access during free time is not an effective solution—it can lead to resistance and damage the parent-child relationship.
Parents are advised to openly talk with their children about internet use, set clear rules, be a positive example of moderate technology use, and avoid posting photos of their children that could compromise their safety.
Spending screen-free time together is important for strengthening family bonds and maintaining mental health. To prevent excessive internet use, children need to be offered quality alternatives—activities that interest them and that they enjoy.
Azra Halilović
The research on gambling and internet use, as well as habits related to tobacco, alcohol, and marijuana consumption among children and youth in three cantons of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (2024), is available here.
