Gender differences in associations between parental problem drinking and early adolescents' internet addiction

J Spec Pediatr Nurs. 2012 Oct;17(4):288-300. doi: 10.1111/j.1744-6155.2012.00344.x.

Abstract

Purpose: The purpose was to examine gender differences between parental problem drinking (PPD) and early adolescents' Internet addiction (IA).

Design and methods: This was a cross-sectional, correlational design with 519 (266 boys and 253 girls) early adolescents.

Results: PPD had a significant direct effect on IA in boys but not in girls. Significant indirect effects of PPD on IA were evidenced via anxiety-depression and aggression for boys and via family function and aggression for girls.

Practice implications: Findings suggest that tailored interventions for the prevention of IA should consider gender.

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology*
  • Aggression
  • Alcohol Drinking / psychology*
  • Anxiety / psychology
  • Behavior, Addictive / psychology*
  • Chi-Square Distribution
  • Child
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Depression / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Internet / statistics & numerical data*
  • Male
  • Parent-Child Relations*
  • Self Concept
  • Sex Factors
  • Surveys and Questionnaires