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Empathy, Social Self-Efficacy, Problematic Internet Use, and Problematic Online Gaming Between Early and Late
Valeria Verrastro1, Clarissa A Albanese2, Giuseppe Ritella3
1Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University "Magna Graecia" of Catanzaro, Catanzaro, Italy.
Cyberpsychology, Behavior and Social Networking
|September 13, 2021
Summary
Empathy and social self-efficacy influence problematic internet use (PIU) and online gaming (POG) differently across age groups. These behaviors and related empathy components decrease in late adolescence.
Area of Science:
- Psychology
- Adolescent Development
- Digital Media Studies
Background:
- Problematic Internet Use (PIU) and Problematic Online Gaming (POG) are growing concerns among adolescents.
- Understanding the interplay between empathy, social self-efficacy, and these behaviors is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationships between empathy, social self-efficacy, PIU, and POG.
- To examine how these relationships vary across different age groups in Italian adolescents.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 1,585 Italian students aged 12-20.
- Utilized self-report questionnaires including measures for PIU, POG, empathy (Interpersonal Reactivity Index), and social self-efficacy.
Main Results:
- Significant age-related differences were observed in the relationships between empathy, social self-efficacy, PIU, and POG.
- PIU and POG, along with prosocial behaviors and personal distress, decreased in late adolescence (18-20 years).
- Adolescents aged 15-17 reported higher empathic concern compared to other age groups.
Conclusions:
- The influence of empathy and social self-efficacy on PIU and POG is age-dependent, suggesting distinct developmental pathways.
- Different components of empathy play varied roles in the development of PIU versus POG, highlighting the need for nuanced understanding.
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