Reciprocal relationships between problematic internet use and psychological distress: A nine-month longitudinal study

Abstract

The causal relationships between problematic internet use and psychological distress remain controversial. The present study investigated the reciprocal relationships between problematic internet use (PIU, i.e., problematic social media use [PSMU], problematic gaming [PG]) and psychological distress (i.e., anxiety, depression). Hong Kong and Taiwan university students (N=645; nmale=266; mean=20.95 years [SD=5.63]) were recruited for a survey study, with follow-ups at three, six, and nine months after baseline assessment. The Bergen Social Media Addiction Scale, Internet Gaming Disorder-Short Form, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were used to assess studied variables. Cross-lagged models were constructed to understand the reciprocal relationships between PIU and psychological distress. The level of anxiety significantly impacted the level of PSMU but not in the opposite direction. The level of PSMU significantly impacted the level of depression but not in the opposite direction. In addition, levels of PG and both types of psychological distress had reciprocal impacts on each another. Because PIU can lead to psychological distress, prevention programs on digital health are needed. Moreover, because there is a reciprocity between PG and psychological distress, psychological interventions to break the reciprocal relationship for those with serious PG and psychological distress are warranted.