JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

There are many empirical studies that demonstrate the associations between problematic internet use, psychopathological symptoms and personality traits. However, complex models are scarce.

Objective:

To address this gap, the aim of the present study is to build and test a mediation model based on these factors.

Methods:

Data were collected from a medical addiction center (43 internet addicts) and internet cafés (222 customers) in Beijing (Mean age = 22.45 years, SD = 4.96; 90.2% males). Path analysis was applied to test the mediation models within structural equation modelling.

Results:

Based on the preliminary analyses (correlations and linear regression), two different models were built. In the first model, low conscientiousness and depression had a direct significant influence on problematic internet use. The indirect effect of conscientiousness – via depression – was non-significant. Emotional stability only affected problematic internet use indirectly, via depressive symptoms. In the second model, low conscientiousness also had a direct influence on problematic internet use, while the indirect path via the Global Severity Index was non-significant again. Emotional stability impacted problematic internet use indirectly via the Global Severity Index, while it had no direct effect on it, as in the first model.

Conclusions:

Conscientiousness and neuroticism are the strongest predictors of problematic internet use, which is not specific to problematic internet use, but it is common in psychopathologies. Based on the first model, regarding individual factors, two different paths leading into problematic internet use are proposed. The first path comprises individuals with high levels of neuroticism who are trying to cope with their negative emotions by repeatedly using the internet more intensively. The second path comprises individuals with low level of conscientiousness making them vulnerable to problematic internet use.