Minors and problematic Internet use: Evidence for better prevention

Abstract

The expansion of ICT has contributed to the emergence of a new issue of increasing importance: problematic Internet use. Addressing this phenomenon comes with the understanding that it is not isolated from other online risky behaviors or other common problems in adolescence, such as substance use. This suggests the desirability in identifying common factors that can guide preventive work. This empirical study based on a sample of 3772 Spanish adolescents aged between 12 and 17 years has allowed: a) to verify that the use of Internet and social networking sites is widespread; b) to demonstrate that problematic Internet use is associated with different online risky practices (contacting strangers, sexting, online gambling …), as well as substance use, and c) to identify personal variables related to problematic Internet use and online risky behaviors. The results obtained emphasize the relevance of relying on a transversal approach to prevention, based on values and life skills education.