For the majority of older children and adolescents, the internet and social media are a natural part of everyday life. Limiting screen time is often challenging — not just for young people, but for their parents as well. Yet scientific evidence clearly shows that excessive media consumption can negatively affect mental health and may lead to problematic usage patterns — even media addiction.
Villa Schöpflin, Centre for Addiction Prevention and one of our affiliated institutions, is currently developing the web app »freii«, aimed at supporting children, adolescents, and their families in using digital media more consciously. Starting in mid-March, the external research institute delphi Gesellschaft für Forschung will conduct an effectiveness study to evaluate this new prevention program.
An interactive prevention program for families
»freii« is aimed at children and adolescents aged 11 to 15 (grades 6 to 8), as well as their parents and other caregivers. The goal of the app is to strengthen media literacy, involve families in prevention efforts, and foster mutual trust when it comes to media use. It combines knowledge transfer, self-reflection, and practical tasks to promote healthy media habits.
The app takes a playful approach: young users complete a variety of tasks and are guided through the app by virtual mentors. Parents and other caregivers have access to a separate section offering information and practical tips on media education.
Scientific Monitoring and Evaluation
Ahead of the app’s nationwide launch, the prevention program is being scientifically evaluated by delphi Gesellschaft für Forschung The aim of the study is to systematically assess the program’s effects on its target groups and to gain long-term insights into adolescents’ media usage. Up to 6,000 students and 6,000 parents or other caregivers from eleven German federal states will take part in the study between March and July 2025. The project is funded by the German Federal Ministry of Health.
Further Information
The interactive, software-based program »freii« is being implemented by Villa Schöpflin gGmbH in cooperation with Drogenhilfe Köln gGmbH, Universitätsmedizin Mainz, Anonyme Drogenberatung Delmenhorst, and the Fachverband für Medienabhängigkeit e.V. The development of »freii« is funded by the Schöpflin Foundation. For more information about the program, click here.