Content available only in Spanish.
Algorithms, persuasive design, and adolescent health: the impact of the digital ecosystem and key strategies for protection from a public health perspective
- 2026, Volume 21 - Number 2
- Published: 15/07/2026
Algorithms, persuasive design, and adolescent health: the impact of the digital ecosystem and key strategies for protection from a public health perspective
María A. Salmerón-Ruiz 
Presidenta de la Sociedad Española de Medicina de la Adolescencia (SEMA); Unidad de adolescencia, Hospital Ruber Internacional; Centro Comienzo. Madrid, España
María A. Salmerón-Ruiz
La información completa de afiliaciones y autor de correspondencia está disponible en la versión original en PDF.
*Correspondence: María A. Salmerón-Ruiz. Email: mariasalmeronruiz@gmail.com
Abstract
The current digital ecosystem may pose significant risks to neurodevelopment and overall health in the adolescent population. This vulnerability is explained by the “asynchronous maturation” of the limbic system and the prefrontal cortex, which limits self-regulation in the face of personalization algorithms and persuasive design strategies. These mechanisms (such as social pressure, intermittent reinforcement, and cognitive capture) promote prolonged usage patterns associated with sleep disturbances, sedentary behavior, emotional problems, and socio-affective difficulties. Adults are also affected by the digital ecosystem; therefore, their own usage patterns and self-regulatory capacity are essential both as a model and as a protective factor for children. This review integrates neurobiological, behavioral, and epidemiological evidence. Public health strategies are proposed, focusing on design regulation, digital literacy, and the promotion of healthy lifestyle habits.
Keywords: Adolescence. Digital ecosystem. Persuasive design. Algorithms. Public health. Healthy lifestyle.
