Utilización adecuada de las redes sociales para la promoción de la salud mental en adolescentes de la Unidad Educativa Simón Rodriguez. Licán, Riobamba 2022

Abstract

Adolescents of the Simón Rodríguez Educational Unit of the Licán parish are prone to make inappropriate decisions using intenet platforms affecting their mental condition directly. Additionally, the adolescents presented minimal knowledge about the rules of internet utilization. This research was based on encouraging the proper use of social networks promoting mental health in adolescents of the Simón Rodríguez Educational Unit of the Licán parish. A cross-sectional, descriptive, and non-experimental approach was applied. The study was conducted over three months: July-August 2022. The study population was a group of forty adolescents (13-16 years old) who participated in a survey focused on three components: sociodemographic data, knowledge, and practices. The data obtained from the implementation of the Educational Communication program showed a significant increase in the participants' correct use of social networks, promoting values such as respect. Furthermore, participants became aware of the risks involved in using new technologies, the practice of applying basic rules for protecting personal information, and, promoting a healthy environment in social networks that are essential for the proper promotion of Mental Health, as well. On the other hand, the researcher concluded that the adolescents of the Simón Rodríguez Educational Unit increased their knowledge about different internet platforms and improved their mental condition by knowing the risks and safe practices within the technological media and improved their lifestyles.