How adolescents lose control over social networks: A process-based approach to problematic social network use.

Social networks (SNs) are immensely popular, especially among teenagers, yet our understanding of problematic SNs remains limited. Understanding motivations and patterns of use is crucial given the current prevalence of problematic SNs use. Perarles et al. (2020) distinguish two behavioral control modes: Model-Free Control, where actions are characterized by actions driven by immediate gratification without reflective consideration for long-term consequences, and Model-Based Control, enabling planned and goal-directed actions. Both control modes can lead to problematic social network use. This study aims to delve into problematic SNs use and the underlying motives behind adolescents' participation in SNs, drawing upon the theoretical proposal by Perales et al. (2020). We conducted four focus groups with adolescents aged 13-17 (50 % female; Mage = 14.5, SD = 1.75), comprising two public school and two Catholic private school groups. Thematic analysis using Atlas.ti software revealed three themes. The first uncovers characteristics of problematic SNs use, including withdrawal, increased usage time, impaired control, behavioral salience and attentional capture and cognitive hijacking. The second spotlights motives, emphasizing emotional regulation, finding out what is going on, and social interaction. The third theme explores consequences such as compromised academic performance and physical harm. In conclusion, addressing both motives and problematic behaviors present a more effective approach to confronting SNs use challenges and fostering healthier online experiences for adolescents.

Emotional State, Life Satisfaction and Worries Regarding COVID-19 in Spanish and Chilean Adolescents during Spring 2020.

Background: The lockdown due to COVID-19, has affected the mental health of the population. Recent literature suggests a greater psychological impact on adolescents regardless of their cultural background. Objective: The aim is to analyze the emotional state, life satisfaction and worries about COVID-19 in Chilean and Spanish adolescents. Method: A total of 1078 adolescents (M=15.18; SD=1.25) completed the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale, the COVID-19 Worry Scale and the Life Satisfaction Scale. The design was cross-sectional and descriptive. Descriptive analyses, t-tests, and linear regressions were performed. Results: More emotional symptoms, worries and lower life satisfaction were observed in Chile. Girls had more worries and emotional symptoms. An affected psychological state is also observed in Spanish adolescents, especially in Chilean adolescents. Worries about COVID-19 affect depression, anxiety, stress and life satisfaction in both samples. Conclusions: Further research is needed to prevent psychological distress in future pandemics. Developing tailored interventions are encouraged.

Efectos de la legalización del cannabis sobre la salud física: una revisión sistemática / Effects of cannabis legalisation on physical health: A literature review

La legalización de la marihuana medicinal y recreativa en diferentes países ha generado un debate acerca de los beneficios de la misma. El presente trabajo tiene como objetivo conocer, a través de una revisión sistemática de la literatura publicada entre 2013 y 2019 en la base de datos Web of Science Core Collection los efectos de la legalización sobre variables relacionadas con la salud física. El número de artículos revisados fueron 24. Los resultados indican un aumento de casos y de hospitalizaciones por consumo accidental de marihuana en niños menores de 18 años, y entre adultos debido al abuso, un efecto en el número de nacimientos ingresados en incubadora, una disminución en el número de prescripciones de medicamentos con codeína, no habiendo relación con el número de suicidios. Se puede concluir que la legalización ha tenido un efecto sobre variables relacionadas con la salud física. En este sentido, es necesario tener en cuenta la evidencia científica en materia de salud en el debate acerca de la legalización de la marihuana en España o en otros países de la Unión Europea

The legalisation of both, medical and recreational, marijuana has generated a broad debate about its benefits. This paper's aim is to see up close, by reviewing literature published between 2013 and 2019 in the Web of Science Core Collection database, the effects that legalisation has had in different variables related to physical health. The total number of articles reviewed was 24. The results exhibit an increase in cases and hospital admissions related with accidental consumption of marijuana in children under 18, and in adults due to substance abuse. The number of births admitted to neonatal care has also been affected, in addition to a decrease in the prescriptions of codeine-formulated medications. No stablished link has been made with the number of suicides. It can be concluded that legalization has affected different variables related to physical health, therefore it is necessary to have into account the scientific evidence when debating about the legalisation of marijuana in Spain or other European Union member States