Teaching Digital Well-Being: Evidence-Based Resources to Help Youth Thrive
This research report from the Center for Digital Thriving and Common Sense Media emphasizes the importance of teaching digital well-being and provides resources for educators and students. Adolescent mental health and well-being are central areas of focus in this report. Acknowledging both the affordances and harms of technology, the report urges educators to use evidence-based strategies to support students’ digital literacy and well-being. Drawing on clinical and behavioral health research, the report introduces four core approaches: (1) centering values, (2) noticing design tricks, (3) steering clear of thinking traps, and (4) tackling tech habits. The report describes specific strategies, activities, and lessons to showcase how these approaches might help youth unpack the unintentional negative impacts of digital platform design and use technology in a way that aligns with one’s values. This report may be a useful resource for teacher educators, education leaders, teachers, counselors, and caregivers looking to teach digital well-being in a holistic manner.