Adolescents’ internet use in relation to self-esteem and adaptability in career decision-making

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis study investigates Internet use in relation to self-esteem and adaptability in career decision-making among Finnish adolescents (N = 336). Decision-making and adaptability were evaluated using a questionnaire on career decision style, self-esteem was assessed with a self-esteem test, and Internet use was measured by an instrument that determines Internet addiction. In accordance with the Internet Addiction Test scores, the data were categorised into three groups: below average scores (20–39.99; n = 146; 43.5%); average scores (40–49.9; n = 113; 33.6%) and above average scores (50–100; n = 77; 22.9%). Results show that with increasing Internet use, the adolescents’ self-esteem declines, their adaptability in career decision-making process weakens and the decision-making process proceeds at a slower rate than it does for adolescents who use the Internet for less time.