Psychosocial and Digital Determinants of Mental Health Among Nigerian Adolescents and Young Adults: Evidence from Emerging Research

@article{1722406,
      author = {Nwanesi, B. O., Ochor, D. C., Christian J., Jonathan, R. E.},
      title = {Psychosocial and Digital Determinants of Mental Health Among Nigerian Adolescents and Young Adults: Evidence from Emerging Research},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2026},
      volume = {10},
      number = {2},
      pages = {2108-2117},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1722406.pdf},
      abstract = {Psychosocial factors and the evolving digital landscape increasingly influence the mental health of Nigerian adolescents and young adults. This conceptual review examines emerging evidence regarding social media exposure, problematic internet use, emotional reactivity, social support, artificial intelligence (AI)-based mental health screening, AI-mediated therapeutic relationships, social skills interventions, gender differences, and implications for mental health service delivery in Nigeria. Youth mental health is theorized as reflecting interconnected psychological, interpersonal, and technology-mediated influences, rather than solely individual vulnerability or digital exposure. Evidence suggests that negative social media content and problematic internet use may be associated with psychological distress and emotional problems, while positive interpersonal relationships can enhance coping and treatment engagement. AI tools have the potential to facilitate early detection of mental health issues and expand access to psychological services, but also pose risks related to privacy, algorithmic bias, cultural appropriateness, inaccuracy, emotional attachment to AI tools, and professional responsibility. The review underscores the importance of social skills development, gender-informed strategies, and community engagement to improve youth mental health outcomes. A psychosocial-digital approach is proposed, positioning digital technologies as supplements rather than replacements for mental health services within professional, family, and community contexts. The review recommends culturally appropriate, ethically sound, and people-centred digital mental health interventions in Nigeria, supported by longitudinal and mixed-methods research.},
      keywords = {adolescents, artificial intelligence, digital technology, mental health, nigeria, psychosocial determinants, social media, young adults},
      month = {August},
  }