Cyber Paranoia and General Paranoia in non-clinical adolescents

Supervisors: Dr Emma Palmer-Cooper and Dr Lyn Ellett

Abstract

Aims: The purpose of this project is; to learn how adolescents describe their experiences of paranoia and cyber paranoia, investigate the prevalence of cyber-paranoia in non-clinical adolescents, determine the extent to which paranoia coexists with cyber-paranoia and ascertain whether adolescents make use of metacognitive strategies to control thoughts in the presence of paranoia. The project will include a systematic literature review of the impact of cyber bullying and online victimisation on the mental health of adolescents aged 14 to 18.

Study Design: A quantitative cross-sectional design will be utilised. Participants will respond to an online survey where data will be collected on age, gender identity, biological sex and ethnicity. Anxiety and depression will be measured and controlled for, given their association with paranoia and metacognition. Several qualitative questions for participants to provide typed responses will also be included in the survey. 

Methods: Paranoia will be measured using the personal experiences of paranoia scale (PEPS). The cyber paranoia and fear scale will measure cyber paranoia and the GAD-C and PHQ9 will respectively capture anxiety and depression. The TCQ will measure the effectiveness of strategies utilised to control unpleasant and unwanted thoughts. Latent class analysis (LCA) will be carried out using the PEPs and the cyber paranoia and fear scale. Analyses will ascertain what metacognitive strategies are utilized to control thoughts in the presence of paranoia and/or cyber paranoia.

Impact: We hope this knowledge will support and inform the ongoing initiatives in the metropolitan police to understand how young persons may be impacted by having been victims of cybercrime.  The study will give an insight into the prevalence of cyber paranoia in adolescents and can be used to inform safeguarding practices and educate young persons about cyber paranoia. The knowledge can be used to educate and inform parents and adolescents about the risks associated with technology as well as provide information on the adverse effects on mental health, thus helping to develop preventative educational programmes. The study can add knowledge to safeguarding practices, and inform the support strategies for adolescents experiencing distress related to interactions with internet-based technologies.