Individual-level correlates of problematic internet use among adolescents: A nationally representative study in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Though there is no consensus on its definition, problematic Internet use (PIU), especially in adolescents, is concerning. Research into risk factors is needed. We explored associations between lifestyle and individual characteristics associated with PIU in a nationally representative sample of adolescents. Students (Grades: 7–12; n = 2,546) from randomly selected schools in three major cities across Saudi Arabia completed Young's Internet Addiction Test (YIAT) and questions about demography, lifestyle, religiosity, and Internet use. A multilevel regression model was used to assess correlates of PIU (defined as YIAT ≥40). Participants’ mean (SD) age was 15.6 (±1.8) years; 54% were girls. The PIU prevalence was 41.8%, while the prevalence of Internet addiction (YIAT ≥70) was 3.7%. The odds of having PIU increased incrementally and significantly across increasing screen times (OR 1.2, 1.9, 2.3, and 2.9 for 3–4, 5–6, 7–8, and >8 hours/daily, respectively; ref ≤2 hours) and across decreasing ages of Internet initiation (OR 1.0, 1.2 and 1.4 respectively for 11–12, 9–10 and ≤8 years, respectively; ref ≥13 years). The odds of having PIU were ∼20% higher among those with low or moderate (ref = high) religiosity, although results were not statistically significant. Additionally, the odds of having PIU were higher among those who had unhealthy diets (OR 1.4). PIU is associated with other risk behaviors as well as resilience factors in Saudi Arabia. Delaying Internet initiation among children may help reduce PIU. Among intermediate and high school students in Saudi Arabia: • The prevalence of problematic Internet use (PIU) was high (∼41.8%). • PIU was higher among smokers and low academic performers. • PIU increased with lower ages of Internet initiation. • PIU did not vary by gender or the extent of Quran memorization.