Exploring the link between digital dating abuse and mental health in adolescents

Bidirectional effects between adolescent digital dating abuse dynamics and mental health

NIH-funded research Arizona State University-Tempe Campus · NIH-11045446

This study looks at how digital dating abuse, like using technology to control or harass a partner, impacts the mental health of teens, focusing on how these experiences relate to feelings of anxiety and depression, while also exploring how supportive relationships with parents and friends can help.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionArizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tempe, United States)
Project IDNIH-11045446 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how digital dating abuse, which involves using technology to control or harass a partner, affects the mental health of adolescents. It aims to understand the reciprocal relationship between experiencing digital dating abuse and mental health issues like anxiety and depression. By examining daily interactions and the role of supportive relationships with parents and peers, the study seeks to identify protective factors and the dynamics that contribute to these challenges. The research will utilize longitudinal data to provide insights into these complex interactions over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adolescents who have experienced digital dating abuse or are at risk of such experiences.

Not a fit: Patients who are not adolescents or those who have not engaged in digital dating relationships may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions and support systems for adolescents facing digital dating abuse and related mental health issues.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated a concerning prevalence of digital dating abuse and its impact on mental health, suggesting that this area of study is both relevant and necessary.

Where this research is happening

Tempe, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.