Res@t: Resource-Strengthening Training for Adolescents with Problematic Digital-Media Use and their Parents

Aims: Given rising prevalence of digital-media related disorders (DMRD, i. e. the problematic use of digital games, social media, and streaming platforms) in children and adolescents, the new therapy program Res@t (Resource strengthening program for adolescents with DMRD and their parents) aims to close a significant evidence-based treatment gap. It addresses affected adolescents and their parents in different settings. Methods: Res@t is a fully manualized CBT program based on current research results and clinical experiences. It was initially developed for adolescents with problematic gaming (Res@t-A) and their parents (Res@t-P) in a face-to-face group setting. A digital translation into a fully automated application (Res@t digital [Res@pp]) should allow support independently of available local therapy options or the use within blended therapy. Besides DMRD symptom reduction in adolescents through Res@t-A, Res@t-P shall increase parental self-efficacy. Pilot-study data of Res@t-P within a pre-post-follow-up design showed promising effects on a decrease of parental stress perception and an increase of family functioning, as well as on DMRD symptom reduction in affected adolescents. However, a missing control group and rather small sample size reduces interpretability. Res@t-A is currently being evaluated within a comparable design. Multi-center randomized controlled studies are planned to evaluate the effectiveness of all offline and digital program versions. Conclusion: Res@t is the first manualized treatment program focusing on adolescents with DMRD and their parents for different settings (group therapy, digital application). Effective treatments addressing both target groups are highly warranted.