Abstract
Previous research indicates that cybervictimization can lead to adolescent Internet addiction; however, there is a gap in the knowledge about the mediating and moderating variables facilitating this relationship. This study examines the role of rejection sensitivity as a mediator in this relationship and the role of parent–adolescent communication as a moderator for this mediation effect among Chinese adolescents. Participants were 1006 adolescents (M = 13.16 years, SD = 0.67), who completed the questionnaires anonymously. The questionnaires assessed the four variables of interest. Descriptive statistics and structural equation modeling were used for data analysis. The results show that the positive association between cybervictimization and adolescent Internet addiction is mediated by rejection sensitivity. Moreover, this indirect effect is stronger for adolescents with low parent–adolescent communication than for those with high parent–adolescent communication.
Highlights
Internet addiction refers to the uncontrollable, excessive, and compulsive use of the Internet, which has recently become a concern due to its psychological and physiological effects [1,2]
Consistent with our hypotheses, the results showed that cybervictimization is indirectly related to adolescent Internet addiction through rejection sensitivity, and this process is attenuated by positive parent–adolescent communication
The current moderated mediation model enriches our understanding of the mechanisms underlying the relationship between cybervictimization and Internet addiction among Chinese adolescents
Summary
Internet addiction refers to the uncontrollable, excessive, and compulsive use of the Internet, which has recently become a concern due to its psychological and physiological effects [1,2]. China have reached 989 million, of which 13.5% were aged 10–19; this data report suggested the importance of providing guidance to adolescents about appropriate Internet usage and prevention of Internet addiction. It is necessary to explore the key mechanisms and pathways of adolescent Internet addiction development to provide valuable information for the continued development and refinement of effective prevention strategies and early intervention initiatives in the future. The effect of cybervictimization on adolescent Internet addiction has attracted an increasing amount of attention [9,10]. Cybervictimization is a common form of online harassment among adolescents It refers to the intentional and repetitive harm caused via various modes of online communication
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: International journal of environmental research and public health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
