Análisis comparativo entre el uso y el abuso de la tecnología digital postpandemia y sus efectos en las habilidades sociales de los adolescentes.

Abstract

The present research consisted of a comparative analysis of post-pandemic digital technology use and abuse and its effects on adolescents' social skills. Social interaction skills are indispensable at this developmental stage according to social learning theory. The effects of the pandemic on the social skills of adolescents were characterized, as well as their use of digital technology, and background research and reliable bibliographical sources were cited. The research provides a theoretical basis for social learning and its relationship to social skills based on cognitive behavioural therapy. By using a descriptive design, with an established causal relationship, with a mixed approach, it was established in the quantitative order to collect information through a survey of adolescents in an educational unit of Guayaquil; the results obtained reflected the management of time connected to the internet, the use of mobile phones, messaging, and social networks. On the other hand, in the qualitative research, through an interview with the Clinical Psychologist of the educational unit, it was outlined that possibly the environment has always normalized the use of digital technologies. The adolescent acquires diverse social skills that are positive, but they must be complemented with experiences that do not isolate their direct social interaction with peers. Finally, a psychoeducational proposal is put forward for post-pandemic adolescents who face a gap between the use and abuse of digital technologies and the formation of their social skills.