Integrating Adolescent Problematic Internet Use Risk Factors: Hyperactivity, Inconsistent Parenting, and Maladaptive Cognitions

The aim of this study was to examine the interrelationships of adolescent biological, social and cognitive factors in relation to problematic internet use (PIU). The design of this study was based upon a multi-faceted theoretical framework with the intent of exploring the integration of risk factors associated with PIU. Participants were 305 middle school and high school adolescents who completed questionnaires with measures of hyperactivity, parenting practices, maladaptive cognitions and PIU. After controlling for age, gender and family economic status, the regression analyses showed hyperactivity, inconsistent parenting and maladaptive cognitions to be independently predictive of PIU. Inconsistent parenting was found to mediate the effect between hyperactivity and maladaptive cognitions. No significant interactions were found between parenting practices and hyperactivity or maladaptive cognitions. This study contributes to an understanding of the interplay of biological, familial and cognitive factors in the development of adolescent PIU and points to implications for the necessity of considering multiple preventive and treatment approaches for adolescents who are encountering difficulties with excessive use of the internet.

Results: Inconsistent parenting was found to mediate the effect between hyperactivity and maladaptive cognitions. No significant interactions were found between parenting practices and hyperactivity or maladaptive cognitions. This study contributes to an understanding of the interplay of biological, familial and cognitive factors in the development of adolescent PIU and points to implications for the necessity of considering multiple preventive and treatment approaches for adolescents who are encountering difficulties with excessive use of the internet.