Key Findings from the Research
The study involved focus group interviews with counselors experienced in PSU interventions. The data revealed three major themes: the screening and inflow phase, the intervention phase, and the maintenance phase. Each phase presented unique challenges and opportunities for improvement.1. Screening and Inflow Phase
The screening process for identifying children and adolescents with PSU often suffers from inaccuracies. The study highlighted several factors contributing to this issue:- Inaccuracy of Screening Tests: Tests conducted in non-private, group settings often lead to insincere responses from children.
- Barriers in the Inflow Process: Children with PSU frequently face additional psychosocial issues, and parental reluctance due to stigma or lack of awareness further complicates the process.
- Importance of School Cooperation: Active cooperation from schools is crucial in identifying and managing PSU, but is often lacking.
2. Intervention Phase
Effective intervention programs must be engaging and tailored to the specific needs of children and adolescents. Key recommendations from the study include:- Programs Requiring Supplementation: Standard programs should incorporate various media and activities to maintain interest and provide emotional support.
- Importance of Parental Involvement: Improving parent-child relationships and providing emotional support to parents are critical for effective interventions.
- Concerns about COVID-19 and Vulnerable Groups: The pandemic has exacerbated PSU, particularly among vulnerable groups, necessitating special measures and alternative activities.
3. Maintenance Phase
Long-term strategies and systematic follow-up care are essential for sustained improvements in PSU:- Lack of Long-term Strategies: Short-term interventions often lead to temporary improvements, underscoring the need for ongoing support and case management services.
- Need to Re-establish Program Goals: Programs should focus on promoting healthy smartphone use rather than complete abstinence, with clear and measurable goals.
- Need for System Reorganization: Coordination among various institutions and stakeholders is necessary to avoid overlapping services and ensure comprehensive care.
Actionable Strategies for Practitioners
Based on these findings, practitioners can enhance their PSU intervention programs by implementing the following strategies:1. Improve Screening Accuracy
- Conduct screenings in private, one-on-one settings to encourage honest responses.
- Use a combination of screening tools, including emotional and behavioral assessments, to obtain a comprehensive understanding of PSU.
2. Develop Engaging and Tailored Interventions
- Incorporate multimedia content, games, and activities to maintain children's interest.
- Focus on emotional support and alternative activities that promote self-esteem and accomplishment.
3. Enhance Parental Involvement
- Educate parents on the seriousness of PSU and the importance of their involvement.
- Provide flexible intervention schedules that accommodate parents' availability.
- Offer emotional support to parents to help them better understand and support their children.
4. Foster School Cooperation
- Work with schools to ensure they understand the importance of PSU management and provide necessary support.
- Coordinate with school staff to integrate PSU interventions into the school schedule.
5. Implement Long-term and Systematic Follow-up Care
- Develop case management services to provide ongoing support and prevent relapse.
- Establish clear goals and evaluation criteria for interventions, focusing on healthy smartphone use.
- Coordinate with other institutions to streamline services and avoid duplication.
Encouraging Further Research
While the study provides valuable insights, further research is needed to address the limitations and explore additional factors influencing PSU interventions. Practitioners are encouraged to engage in continuous learning and research to refine their approaches and contribute to the growing body of knowledge on PSU management.To read the original research paper, please follow this link: The experiences of counselors caring for children and adolescents with problematic smartphone use.
