This chapter explores the relationship between life purpose and the use of digital media, analyzing both the challenges and opportunities this context presents for adolescents. Life purpose is essential for positive development, providing direction and resilience. However, the absence of purpose can lead to feelings of emptiness and an increased risk of digital dependency, where the virtual world serves as a form of escapism from the difficulties of real life. Adolescents who spend excessive time immersed in the digital world often neglect activities that foster self-awareness, hindering the development of long-term goals and essential skills for adulthood. On the other hand, conscious use of digital tools offers numerous opportunities for discovering life purpose. Online platforms can broaden horizons, connecting adolescents to causes, communities, and knowledge that nurture their values and aspirations. When balanced, the digital realm can act as a catalyst for self-development, enabling young people to explore interests, skills, and social connections that positively impact their lives. This chapter concludes by highlighting the importance of educational and social interventions that help adolescents navigate the digital world healthily, balancing technology use with purpose development.

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From Virtual to Real: Considerations on Life Purpose and Media Use in Adolescents

  • Juliano Porto de Cerqueira Leite,
  • Letícia Lovato Dellazzana-Zanon

摘要

This chapter explores the relationship between life purpose and the use of digital media, analyzing both the challenges and opportunities this context presents for adolescents. Life purpose is essential for positive development, providing direction and resilience. However, the absence of purpose can lead to feelings of emptiness and an increased risk of digital dependency, where the virtual world serves as a form of escapism from the difficulties of real life. Adolescents who spend excessive time immersed in the digital world often neglect activities that foster self-awareness, hindering the development of long-term goals and essential skills for adulthood. On the other hand, conscious use of digital tools offers numerous opportunities for discovering life purpose. Online platforms can broaden horizons, connecting adolescents to causes, communities, and knowledge that nurture their values and aspirations. When balanced, the digital realm can act as a catalyst for self-development, enabling young people to explore interests, skills, and social connections that positively impact their lives. This chapter concludes by highlighting the importance of educational and social interventions that help adolescents navigate the digital world healthily, balancing technology use with purpose development.