Risks associated with the use of technologies in adolescents between 14 and 16 years of age at the Manto de Gracia Christian School, Nueva Guinea, 2022

Abstract

The present investigation addressed clear definitions of technological tools, determining the use that teenagers give to them, and the time they dedicate to the internet and social networks. It also addresses the concepts of the risks that can come with an inappropriate use of technology and the internet.

The main objective of this research was to determine the risks associated with the use of technologies in teenagers from 14 to 16 years of age at the Manto de Gracia Christian School located in the city of Nueva Guinea, South Caribbean Coast, Nicaragua, second semester of 2022. We worked with a quantitative approach, the research is descriptive analyzing the characteristics of teenagers where the risks associated with the use of technology in daily life are highlighted. To collect the information, the survey instrument with closed questions was used to obtain the necessary information to evaluate the use of technological devices and the internet.

In this study, it was determined that 98.4% of the surveyed population has smartphones. 78.1% of teenagers indicate that frequent use poses risks when connected to the internet. 67.2% of them use the social network Tik Tok. It is worth mentioning that 82.8% use technological devices without adult supervision. This data shows that teenagers are exposed to risks such as cyberbullying, sexting, phishing, and grooming. In this context, it is highlighted that 81.3% of people are aware of cases in which others have faced the risk of cyberbullying. This high level of awareness reflects the importance of addressing and preventing this type of online behavior.