Childhood Abuse, Digital Dependency, and Mental Health Insights from a Systematic Review

Background Childhood abuse, encompassing physical, emotional, and sexual maltreatment, is a major risk factor for a range of psychological disorders. In parallel, digital dependency has emerged as a growing concern among children and adolescents, potentially exacerbating mental health vulnerabilities. Understanding the interplay between early-life abuse and technology overuse is critical for developing preventive and therapeutic strategies. Objective This systematic review aims to synthesize current evidence on the relationship between childhood abuse, digital dependency, and associated mental health outcomes, highlighting psychological mechanisms and clinical implications. Methods A systematic search was conducted in major databases, including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science, covering studies published up to 2025. Inclusion criteria encompassed peer-reviewed empirical studies examining associations between childhood abuse, technology overuse or addiction, and mental health indicators. Data were extracted and analyzed following PRISMA guidelines, focusing on study design, sample characteristics, assessment tools, and reported outcomes. Results The review identified consistent associations between childhood abuse and increased vulnerability to digital dependency. Individuals with a history of maltreatment showed higher risks of excessive screen time, social media addiction, and problematic gaming, which were linked to anxiety, depression, and emotion dysregulation. Psychological factors such as coping deficits, low self-esteem, and social isolation were found to mediate the relationship between early trauma and technology overuse. Evidence regarding intervention strategies remains limited but suggests potential benefits of combined trauma-informed and digital literacy approaches. Conclusions Childhood abuse may predispose individuals to digital dependency, amplifying mental health challenges. Awareness of this link is essential for clinicians, educators, and policymakers. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies, culturally diverse populations, and targeted interventions to mitigate both trauma-related and technology-related psychological risks.