Abstract
This chapter discusses the burgeoning research related to the harmful effects of excessive and unhealthy media and device use (MDU) on youth mental health and outlines how a harm-reduction model of intervention, often used in the treatment of substance addiction, is an appropriate framework for effective group intervention. The authors offer key considerations when determining what constitutes "unhealthy or excessive" MDU and present a comprehensive conceptualization through a cognitive-behavior therapy (CBT) lens that articulates the interactive components contributing to the problem, including neurobiological, behavioral, social, and cognitive/emotional processes. The importance of understanding how cultural factors contribute to one's relationship with MDU, as well as protective factors that may help mediate that relationship, is also highlighted. After providing a helpful framework to understand problematic MDU, this chapter guides clinicians through a comprehensive assessment process for group inclusion, and it proposes a modular-based group intervention that offers both structure and flexibility to meet group member needs. Treatment modules focus on goal setting, psychoeducation about MDU and CBT, emotional awareness and regulation skills, cognitive restructuring, problem-solving, and executive functioning skills critical for behavior change to promote a healthier, more sustainable relationship with technology for youth.