Parental Emotional Neglect and Adolescent Social Media Addiction: An Islamic Theory-Oriented Psychotherapeutic Case Study

Abstract

This study examines the case of a 15-year-old adolescent suffering from excessive and addictive use of social media, against a background of parental emotional neglect. Clinical analysis demonstrates how the absence of emotional support and effective family communication led to disturbances in emotional regulation and increased reliance on the digital world as a means of escaping loneliness and psychological emptiness. Several theoretical frameworks were employed to diagnose and explain the case, including attachment theory, basic psychological needs theory, the cognitive-behavioural model of problematic internet use, and family systems theory. The therapeutic intervention included an integrated program that included individual cognitive-behavioural therapy sessions, digital regulation training, and family therapy sessions to enhance emotional interaction between the adolescent and his parents. The case demonstrated gradual improvement in psychological and behavioural indicators, such as reduced daily usage hours, improved sleep quality, increased positive feelings, and engagement in real-life social activities. The study highlights the need to address social media addiction among adolescents as a symptom resulting from deep psychological and social factors, especially in an environment lacking emotional containment and family support. The study concludes with a series of lessons learned and practical recommendations for psychologists and family therapists working with this age group.