PREVENTIVE MEASURES AND MECHANISMS FOR COMBATING INTERNET ADDICTION AMONG YOUTH: A SOCIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

This scientific article explores the issue of Internet addiction among youth through a sociological perspective, emphasizing the mechanisms and preventive measures necessary to address this growing challenge in the digital era. With the rapid expansion of information technologies and social networks, the Internet has become an integral part of young people's daily lives, influencing their social behavior, communication patterns, and even psychological well-being. The study analyzes the root causes of Internet dependency among youth, including social isolation, lack of parental control, peer influence, and psychological vulnerability. It also examines the socio-cultural factors that reinforce online dependency, such as the pursuit of virtual approval, digital entertainment, and information overload. The research highlights the importance of a multifaceted preventive strategy involving families, educational institutions, and state organizations to cultivate responsible Internet use among young generations. Special attention is given to the development of media literacy, digital hygiene education, and the promotion of real-life social engagement as protective mechanisms. The sociological analysis presented in this paper aims to contribute to understanding how societal structures can either mitigate or exacerbate Internet addiction, ultimately providing insights for policy development, community programs, and future sociological studies on digital behavior.