Evaluation of the Effectiveness of Interactive Counseling as an Effort to Reduce Gadget Use among Students of PGRI Bugis Middle School

Huda Fitriani; Heri Purnama; Septian Eka Prahardik; Imron Fathurohman; Riema Afriani Kusumadewi

Authors

Huda Fitriani Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Darussalam Kunir Subang Author
Heri Purnama Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Darussalam Kunir Subang Author
Septian Eka Prahardik Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Darussalam Kunir Subang Author
Imron Fathurohman Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Darussalam Kunir Subang Author
Riema Afriani Kusumadewi Sekolah Tinggi Agama Islam Darussalam Kunir Subang Author

Keywords:

Education, Gadgets, Interactive Counseling

Abstract

The digital era has had a significant impact on people's lifestyles, including school-age children who are increasingly familiar with gadgets such as smartphones and tablets. Excessive gadget use can negatively impact physical health (e.g., sleep disturbances, posture problems), mental health (e.g., anxiety, dependency), and children's social and academic development. On the other hand, gadgets also have positive potential if used wisely, such as supporting learning and communication. Therefore, effective strategies are needed to optimize the benefits of gadgets while reducing their risks. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of interactive counseling in reducing excessive gadget use in school-age children and increasing their awareness of balanced gadget use, especially in the PGRI Bugis Junior High School environment. This study used a quasi-experimental design involving 50 school-age children (13-16 years old) who were divided into an intervention group (n=25) and a control group (n=25). The intervention group received interactive counseling that included material on the dangers of excessive gadget use, strategies for managing gadget use time, and healthy alternative activities. The counseling was conducted using discussion methods, educational games, and demonstrations. Data on children's gadget use duration, knowledge, and attitudes were collected through questionnaires before and after the intervention, then analyzed using statistical tests. Interactive counseling proved effective in reducing excessive gadget use among school-aged children and raising their awareness of the importance of balanced gadget use. This strategy can be part of school education programs to support children's health and development in the digital age. Collaboration between parents, teachers, and health workers is also crucial to strengthen the impact of the counseling and create an environment that supports wise gadget use.

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