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Problematic internet use in early adolescence: gender and depression differences in a latent growth curve model

Author

Listed:
  • Peng Wang

    (Wenzhou University)

  • Xiqing Yuan

    (Shandong Normal University)

  • Tao Gao

    (Shandong Normal University)

  • Xiao Wang

    (Nanjing Normal University)

  • Qiulian Xing

    (Shandong Normal University)

  • Xinyu Cheng

    (Shandong College of Electronic Technology)

  • Yu Ming

    (Shandong Normal University)

Abstract

This study examined whether there are gender differences in the developmental trajectory of Problematic Internet Use (PIU) and the impact of developmental changes in depression on PIU development, based on the cognitive-behavioral model and the Psychological Needs Compensation model. The study used the Latent growth curve model to analyze 3-year trace data from Chinese adolescents in grades 6 to 9. The findings revealed that the initial level of PIU during early adolescence was significantly greater than 0, with higher levels in boys compared to girls. A progressive trend in PIU development was observed, which decelerated over time, and no significant gender differences were found. Additionally, a rising pattern was identified in the development of depression. The change rate of depression was a highly significant positive predictor of the change rate in PIU. These findings contribute to an enhanced comprehension of the relationship between depression and the development of adolescent PIU, offering scientific guidance for the promotion of adolescents’ physical and mental well-being.

Suggested Citation

  • Peng Wang & Xiqing Yuan & Tao Gao & Xiao Wang & Qiulian Xing & Xinyu Cheng & Yu Ming, 2025. "Problematic internet use in early adolescence: gender and depression differences in a latent growth curve model," Palgrave Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 12(1), pages 1-12, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:palcom:v:12:y:2025:i:1:d:10.1057_s41599-025-04697-z
    DOI: 10.1057/s41599-025-04697-z
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Zhou, Jianhua & Zhang, Lulu & Gong, Xue, 2023. "Longitudinal network relations between symptoms of problematic internet game use and internalizing and externalizing problems among Chinese early adolescents," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 333(C).
    2. Natalia Tomska & Aleksandra Rył & Agnieszka Turoń-Skrzypińska & Aleksandra Szylińska & Julia Marcinkowska & Damian Durys & Iwona Rotter, 2022. "Emotional State of Young Men in Relation to Problematic Internet Use," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(19), pages 1-9, September.
    3. Hua Wang, 2022. "The Effects of School Climate, Parent–Child Closeness, and Peer Relations on the Problematic Internet Use of Chinese Adolescents: Testing the Mediating Role of Self-Esteem and Depression," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(13), pages 1-11, June.
    4. Albert Satorra & Peter Bentler, 2001. "A scaled difference chi-square test statistic for moment structure analysis," Psychometrika, Springer;The Psychometric Society, vol. 66(4), pages 507-514, December.
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