Abstract. This article deals with the profound ontological shift in youth socialization caused by the rapid expansion of algorithmically mediated environments and surveillance capitalism. Drawing upon the philosophical frameworks of
Shoshana Zuboff and Byung-Chul Han, the study examines how digital platforms replace authentic offline interactions – a process exacerbated by parental "phubbing"– with "virtual introjects" that hijack youth cognitive autonomy. To systematically
address this escalating crisis of digital entropy, the paper introduces a comprehensive. Six-Level Hierarchical Model of Digital Risks. Expanding upon the traditional 4Cs classification, this new taxonomy maps threats ranging from everyday algorithmic
triggers and cognitive depletion to severe offline consequences. The study argues that conventional digital media literacy, which primarily focuses on cognitive fact-checking, is fundamentally insufficient to counteract the behavioral and neurobiological design of modern platforms. To overcome these structural challenges, the paper proposes a transition to "Active Socialization." By deliberately engaging youth in tangible offline processes – such as physical sports and revitalized local community hubs – this approach utilizes the "resistance of matter" to break the cycle of cyber-addiction. Ultimately, active socialization serves as a vital ontological defense, restoring authentic interpersonal connections, and sustainable youth resilience in the digital age.
Keywords: active socialization, digital risks, surveillance capitalism, virtual
introjects, cyber-addiction, cognitive autonomy, phubbing.
Publication Date: 2026-03-22